CUS Organizes Panel Discussion on the Protection of Uyghur Women Against Religious Discrimination

On March 8, 2026, marking International Women’s Day, the Center for Uyghur Studies (CUS) co-organized a panel discussion with the OIC Youth Indonesia titled “Global Human Rights Framework and the Protection of Muslim Women Against Religious Discrimination of Uyghurs.” The event brought together Uyghur and Indonesian speakers, and participants to discuss the challenges faced by the Uyghurs, with particular attention to the situation of Uyghur women.

CUS Executive Director Abdulhakim Idris delivered the opening remarks, expressing appreciation to the organizers, speakers, and participants for their engagement and solidarity. He also thanked Indonesian youth and civil society members for continuing to raise awareness about the plight of the Uyghurs and for standing up for Uyghur human rights and religious freedom, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan.

The panel featured Rushan Abbas, Executive Director of Campaign for Uyghurs, who highlighted the ongoing persecution of Uyghur women under the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) policies. She drew attention to issues such as family separation, mass detention, and coercive birth prevention measures, emphasizing the urgent need for sustained international attention and advocacy.

Imam Sopyan, an Indonesian academic, spoke about the importance of raising awareness about the situation of the Uyghurs among Indonesians and emphasized the role of Indonesian scholars, civil society, and the broader public in speaking out against the religious persecution of the Uyghur Muslims.

Astrid Nadya, President of OIC Youth Indonesia, also addressed the panel, highlighting the role of youth organizations and international cooperation in advocating for the protection of Muslim women facing discrimination and human rights violations.

The panel discussion concluded with an interactive Q&A session, during which participants raised questions about the situation of Uyghurs, the role of international human rights frameworks, and ways to strengthen awareness and advocacy for the Uyghurs.

Through initiatives such as this panel discussion, the CUS continues to work with partners around the world to raise awareness about the Uyghurs and to promote solidarity with the Uyghur people.