The families of four Americans detained in China are pleading for the U.S. government to help bring their loved ones home, citing the physical and mental suffering they are enduring. These families appeared before the Congressional-Executive Commission of China following the release of American pastor David Lin after almost 20 years in a Chinese jail. The Dui Hua Foundation estimates that there are approximately 200 Americans detained in China, many of whom are considered wrongfully detained by the State Department. The use of exit bans has led to the State Department advising Americans to reconsider travel to China, as these bans prevent individuals from leaving the country while cases are under investigation.
Representatives Chris Smith and Jeff Merkley have urged President Joe Biden to focus on advocating for the release of Americans wrongfully detained in China. They emphasized the need for the Chinese government to improve relations with the United States by releasing these individuals and ending the use of exit bans. The families of the detained Americans are joining forces to amplify their voices and push for increased government attention to their cases. Despite the lack of a bilateral prisoner transfer agreement between the U.S. and China, efforts are underway to secure the release of these individuals.
Two of the Americans currently detained in China are Nelson Wells Jr. and Dawn Michelle Hunt, who have been imprisoned since 2014 on charges related to drug smuggling. Both are facing severe sentences under China’s strict drug laws, which have taken a toll on their health and well-being. Wells Jr. has been experiencing chronic pain, seizures, malnutrition, depression, and thoughts of self-harm. Hunt may have ovarian cancer but has refused surgery due to mistrust of prison officials. The families of these individuals are concerned about the deteriorating health and conditions in which they are being held.
The release of American pastor David Lin in September 2021 has raised hopes for the families of other wrongfully detained Americans in China. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and other U.S. officials have been pushing for the release of these individuals in their discussions with Chinese authorities. While the Chinese government maintains that it operates according to the rule of law, the families of detained Americans are calling for greater diplomatic efforts to secure their release. The recent attention to these cases has provided a glimmer of hope for the families, who continue to advocate for the return of their loved ones.
The bipartisan commission hearing provided an opportunity for the families of the detained Americans to share their stories and connect with others facing similar challenges. The ongoing support and engagement of government officials in addressing these cases are crucial for potential resolutions. The families are hopeful that renewed attention from Congress and the public will lead to positive developments and, ultimately, the safe return of their loved ones. Despite the challenges and uncertainties in navigating the complex legal and diplomatic processes, these families remain resilient in their quest to bring their family members home.
