Assault on Uyghur Protester in The Hague Could Be Debated in Dutch Parliament

By Uyghur Times Staff
March 3, 2026

THE HAGUE – The case of Uyghur activist Abdurehim Gheni, who was physically assaulted and allegedly threatened with death while holding a peaceful protest in The Hague, may soon be brought before the Dutch Parliament.

On February 14, Gheni was staging a peaceful demonstration outside The Hague City Hall during a Lunar New Year celebration event organized under the auspices of the Chinese Consulate. During the protest, he was reportedly attacked and threatened by individuals identified as Chinese security personnel. The incident has sparked strong reactions in Dutch media and political circles.

According to reports, the assailants not only used physical force against Gheni but also whispered death threats into his ear, telling him, “We will kill you.” Observers have described the incident as part of an escalating pattern of transnational repression targeting Uyghur activists abroad. Dutch outlet De Kanttekening, which focuses on human rights issues affecting migrants and minorities, characterized the assault as “illegal” and an act of “psychological terror,” noting the serious impact such intimidation can have on an activist’s mental well-being, sense of safety, and freedom of expression.

The incident has drawn attention from the Dutch political party Denk. According to Gheni, he was invited on February 28 to attend an iftar event in The Hague organized by the party. There, he met with party leader Stephan van Baarle and The Hague branch representative Nur Icar.

Van Baarle reportedly expressed appreciation for Gheni’s activism and said he was fully aware of the incident and deeply concerned about what had occurred. During the meeting, Gheni emphasized that the assault represents a serious case of cross-border repression on Dutch soil. “We must prevent Beijing’s long arm from undermining our democracy and security,” he stated, urging that the matter be raised in Parliament.

Van Baarle confirmed that he had viewed video footage of the incident and agreed that it appeared to constitute transnational repression. He requested that Gheni provide all available evidence and pledged to seek to place the issue on the parliamentary agenda.

Following the attack, Gheni immediately reported the incident to Dutch police. A formal investigation has reportedly been opened. He is calling for the identification of the individuals involved and for them to be held accountable under Dutch law.

Observers say the case represents yet another example of efforts by the Chinese government to intimidate and silence Uyghur activists living abroad.