Witnesses describe repression in Tibet and Xinjiang; call for TPSA use, Magnitsky sanctions and broader action

At the CECC hearing, witnesses detailed how PRC policies have reshaped religious practice in minority regions and across diasporas, and urged the United States to use existing legal tools and multilateral pressure.

Ismail Juma described systematic measures against Muslim communities: "Thousands of mosques have had their domes demolished, minarets removed" and private religious instruction can lead to interrogation, fines, detention or reeducation. He warned that repression has not ended in Xinjiang but has "evolved" into pervasive surveillance and forced labor, and that the CCP deploys influence operations to intimidate diaspora Muslims.

Bu Chong Sering, who leads research at the International Campaign for Tibet, said Beijing has moved from the physical destruction of monasteries to tighter political control, requiring portraits of Chinese leaders in monasteries and mandating political education. He detailed reported disappearances of Tibetan activists and urged stronger implementation of the U.S. Tibetan Policy and Support Act and coordinated international action to protect Tibetan religious autonomy.

Commissioners discussed sanctions authorities (including Global Magnitsky) and possible diplomatic steps, such as publicly reaffirming U.S. support for Tibetan religious leaders' right to determine reincarnation decisions. Witnesses recommended coordinated sanctions on officials responsible for abuses and raised the legal and diplomatic trade‑offs for measures like formal recognition of Tibet or East Turkestan in U.S. documents.

The commission kept the record open for additional information and asked witnesses for written follow‑up supporting any recommended measures.