In a poignant ceremony held on December 14 at the University Libre de Bruxelles, the prestigious institution bestowed an honorary doctorate upon Rahile Dawut, a distinguished Uyghur folklore researcher and professor. This recognition of her scholarly contributions comes amidst a backdrop of grave concern for her well-being, as she remains imprisoned in China.

Rahile Dawut's story is one of academic excellence juxtaposed with unjust incarceration. She was clandestinely detained by Chinese authorities in 2017, eventually receiving a life sentence in December 2018. In a recent revelation in September 2023, the details of her imprisonment were brought to light. Dawut stands accused of charges related to separatism and purported threats to state security, allegations that starkly contrast her peaceful pursuits as a researcher living among remote Uyghur communities, deeply studying their folklore and culture.

Her case represents a distressing pattern of persecution against Uyghur intellectuals and academics, with an undisclosed number facing similar unjust detentions in China. The conferral of this honorary doctorate stands as a testament to Rahile Dawut's scholarly dedication and the global academic community's solidarity in advocating for the release and fair treatment of unjustly detained academics.

by Dilshat Sultan

Dec 18 2023