20 Years of Uyghur Resilience: World Congress Marks Milestone in Munich

*Panels in Munich, Germany, on the third and final day of the WUC’s 20th Anniversary program, examine the previous two decades and speculate on the future of the movement.*

Munich, Germany, May 6, 2024 – The World Uyghur Congress (WUC) is jubilantly celebrating its 20th anniversary, a testament to two decades of tireless dedication to the Uyghur cause. Established on April 16, 2004, in Munich, Germany, the WUC emerged as a beacon of hope during a tumultuous period of global upheaval, amplifying the voices of the Uyghur people and symbolizing resilience in the face of immense challenges.

The commemorative events, spanning from May 3rd to May 6th, 2024, are being held at the renowned Kempinski Hotel in Munich, Germany, a city that holds special significance for the Uyghur diaspora in Europe. These events include panel discussions, keynote speeches, networking opportunities, and cultural showcases.

The anniversary celebration culminated today with stirring musical performances, vibrant outdoor picnics, and heartfelt speeches from Uyghur activists, community leaders, and camp survivors. Among the distinguished guests were government officials and civil society representatives from over 25 countries, all united in solidarity with the Uyghur cause.

The WUC, through its relentless advocacy efforts, has achieved significant milestones in raising global awareness about the human rights abuses and genocide inflicted upon the Uyghur community. Notably, the organization received two Nobel Peace Prize nominations in 2023 and 2024, highlighting the urgent need to address the plight of the Uyghur people and hold perpetrators of atrocities accountable.

Despite their rich cultural heritage, the Uyghur community faces severe challenges under Chinese rule, including persecution based on cultural and religious grounds, arbitrary arrests, and the suppression of peaceful dissent.

As the anniversary celebrations come to a close, the WUC reaffirms its unwavering commitment to promoting justice, freedom, and human rights for the Uyghur community. Through solidarity, dialogue, and collective action, the WUC aims to build a better future for all Uyghurs and ensure that their voices are heard on the world stage.