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Australian Senator Dean Smith has called on the government to consider Magnitsky-style sanctions against Chinese officials accused of organising or directing transnational repression, amid concerns over the potential impact of China's new "Ethnic Unity and Progress Law" on Tibetan communities in Australia.
According to the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), Senator Smith, Co-Chair of the Australian Parliamentary Group for Tibet, raised the issue in the Australian Senate on August 20, warning that Chinese policies could extend pressure beyond China's borders and affect members of diaspora communities living in Australia. The Central Tibetan Administration said Smith highlighted Australia's Tibetan, Uyghur, Hong Kong and other diaspora communities, many of whom have come to the country seeking freedom, democracy and protection under the rule of law. He stressed that they should not fear repercussions for exercising those rights in Australia or that their families overseas could face consequences. CTA reported that Smith specifically raised concerns over the possible implications for Australian Tibetans who participate in elections for the Tibetan government in exile, publicly support the Dalai Lama, or express their cultural and religious identity. Smith argued that such activities could potentially be interpreted by Chinese authorities as conduct falling within the broad scope of the new legislation. The senator urged Canberra to formally recognise transnational repression as a national security threat and consider targeted measures against those responsible. Among the measures he proposed were Magnitsky-style sanctions, which can target individuals accused of serious human rights abuses or other misconduct by restricting their access to assets and travel. The Central Tibetan Administration has described the intervention as significant amid growing concerns among diaspora communities about alleged intimidation and pressure originating from Chinese authorities. The report said that Smith's remarks add to calls for Australia to strengthen protections for diaspora communities and ensure that freedoms guaranteed under Australian law cannot be undermined through overseas intimidation or coercion. (ANI)
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