THE HAGUE – On February 14, 2026, a peaceful protest against the Chinese government's human rights abuses took a violent turn when Abdurehim Gheni, a prominent Uyghur activist, was physically assaulted by a group of Chinese personnel in the heart of the Netherlands.
Abdurehim Gheni is a well-known figure in the Dutch human rights scene, recognized for his years of tireless dedication. For a long time, he has conducted a solitary "one-man protest" at Amsterdam’s Dam Square, standing as a silent but powerful witness against the genocide in East Turkestan. However, his attempt to bring this message to a Chinese New Year event at The Hague’s City Hall was met with organized aggression.
A Thwarted Plan and a Brutal Assault
The incident began when Gheni, along with fellow activists Ahmetjan Rahman and Jesur Habibulla, planned a joint protest to expose the "cultural whitewashing" of Uyghur traditions and the ongoing genocide during the official festivities. Due to heavy security and cordons, a group protest proved impossible. Undeterred, Gheni managed to enter the hall alone to exercise his right to free speech.
The moment Gheni raised a banner stating, "The Chinese government is committing genocide against Uyghurs," he was swarmed. Approximately five to six Chinese personnel surrounded him, twisted his arms behind his back, and slammed him to the ground. Witnesses report that the attackers not only used physical force but also issued death threats, telling him he "belonged in a reeducation camp." His personal belongings and protest materials were forcibly seized and never returned.
Even as security guards were escorting him out, the Chinese personnel reportedly attacked him again, twisting his legs and causing further physical injury.
"Transnational Repression" in the Heart of Europe
This incident has sparked a major debate regarding "transnational repression"—a strategy where foreign regimes reach across borders to silence, intimidate, or attack dissidents on foreign soil.
"They want to silence us not just in our homeland, but even in the heart of Europe," Gheni stated in a social media update. "I have filed a formal police report and will protect all my legal rights. We will not be intimidated."
Experts point out the irony of the location: The Hague is the international city of peace and justice. Although the Dutch Parliament has officially recognized the Uyghur genocide, the fact that a citizen was assaulted inside a government building by foreign agents raises serious questions about the safety of activists and the protection of free speech in Europe.
Legal Action and Next Steps
The Dutch police are currently investigating the assault, reviewing security camera footage, and analyzing evidence provided by the activist. Abdurehim Gheni has been a persistent voice for his people at Dam Square for years; this latest attack has only strengthened his resolve.
The outcome of this investigation is seen as a critical test for the Netherlands. It will determine how European democracies respond to foreign-led violence on their own soil and whether they can effectively shield their residents from international bullying and political violence.
