The Japan Uyghur Association continues to raise awareness of the Uyghur genocide across various cities in Japan. Most recently, a series of events protesting China’s genocide policies against the Uyghurs were held in Fukuoka.
On February 8–9, 2025, the Japan Uyghur Association held various activities in Fukuoka, a city in southwestern Japan, such as a panel discussion, public speeches, and the distribution of books and brochures about the Uyghur genocide. The panel was attended by former Japanese parliament members, businesspeople, journalists, and a large number of citizens. In addition to Japan Uyghur Association officials, parliament members also gave speeches expressing their support for the Uyghurs.
According to Sawutjan Memet, a board member of the Japan Uyghur Association and the representative responsible for the World Uyghur Congress’s activities in Southeast Asian countries, on February 8, association members carried out an awareness campaign at Hakata Station—one of Fukuoka’s busiest locations—by distributing brochures and books about the Uyghur genocide. In the afternoon, an informational session on the genocide was held at a venue near Hakata Station.
Sawutjan noted that the meeting attracted considerable interest. The opening speech was delivered by a former national parliament member from Fukuoka. Sawutjan provided updates on the current situation of the Uyghurs, particularly highlighting the distressing conditions of 48 Uyghurs detained in Thailand. Following this, Abdükerim Abdurrahman recounted the hardships he and his family have suffered. The meeting concluded with a Q&A session, where attendees’ questions were addressed.
According to Radio Free Asia (RFA), Sawutjan Memet underscored the significance of organizing awareness and protest events in Fukuoka, one of the closest locations on Japan’s mainland to China, stating:
“On February 9, we held a protest in front of the Chinese consulate in Fukuoka. Due to its proximity to the Korean Peninsula and China, Fukuoka holds strategic importance in Japan’s security policies. Residents in this region directly experience the threats posed by China and North Korea. Given this, raising awareness about China’s oppression and genocide against the Uyghurs here is of great significance.”
The Japan Uyghur Association launched these awareness activities in February 2021 to inform the public about the Uyghur genocide. Over the past four years, brochures have been distributed at nearly 120 locations, more than 30 speech events have been held, and approximately 25 exhibitions and testimony sessions have taken place.
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