#China #Beijing #National Press Club #Dong Yuyu #China Justice

National Press Club's Urgent Call for Justice

In a pressing appeal, Mike Balsamo, President of the National Press Club, has called for the Chinese government to overturn the conviction of journalist Dong Yuyu, who was sentenced to three years in prison for charges of espionage. Dong, an esteemed editorial writer for Guangming Daily, was prosecuted primarily for engaging in professional interactions with foreign diplomats over several years. This case has raised concerns regarding journalistic freedoms and the severe implications for communication between nations.

Dong's appeal is expected to be reviewed in April, which represents a rare opportunity within China’s typically opaque legal system where most criminal cases are handled without public scrutiny. Balsamo asserted that this situation presents China with a crucial chance to rectify an apparent miscarriage of justice, stating, “Allowing this verdict to stand will send a concerning message that authentic dialogue and international engagement could be criminalized.”

According to Chinese legal procedures, an appellate hearing suggests discrepancies in the facts and evidences, potentially leading to a reduced sentence or complete acquittal for Dong, should the court find merit in the appeal.

In a recently disclosed correspondence directed to Dong’s family, Japanese Ambassador to China Kenji Kanasugi openly refuted claims made by the Chinese authorities, which stated that the Japanese diplomats Dong had met with were intelligence operatives. He emphasized that none of the diplomats named during the trial had any involvement in espionage activities and that the government agencies referenced in the verdict carry no intelligence responsibilities according to Japanese law.

Balsamo highlighted the glaring absence of evidence presented by the Ministry of State Security against Dong, pointing out that “No credible judicial system functions in such a manner.” Notably, China has not taken action against any of the eight Japanese diplomats cited in the case, including the former ambassador and the current chief diplomat stationed in Shanghai.

Dong's legal defense team, consisting of prominent rights attorneys including Mo Shaoping and Shang Baojun, has continuously maintained that there is no proof showcasing any tangible benefits gained by Dong, arguing against the espionage charge which the court accepted without question. The attorneys have vowed to pursue Dong's innocence vigorously.

The ramifications of Dong's conviction extend beyond his personal plight, posing significant risks for foreign journalists, scholars, and diplomats operating within China. Balsamo remarked, “If this conviction is upheld, it will set a precarious precedent — not just for journalists, but for anyone who advocates for diplomacy, transparency, and adherence to legal standards.”

The National Press Club has urged the Beijing High Court to expunge Dong’s conviction and dismiss unfounded allegations alleged by the Ministry of State Security. They also called on the Japanese government to clarify the wrongful characterization of its diplomats involved in this case and emphasized the need for continued support from the U.S. government on behalf of Dong and his family.

Dong has been enduring detention since February 2022, and the outcome of his appeal may represent a final opportunity to safeguard his health and uphold his family's welfare alongside protecting China’s international standing as a nation committed to justice and fairness.

For additional details and family statements regarding Dong's case, please visit the National Press Club’s official website.