China: Report Says Forced Relocations a Growing Problem

In China, a report has been published about the violent forced relocation of residents and the demolition of their homes. The report, prepared by a web-based rights group, says the extensive problem can only be solved when individual rights are respected.

Since the introduction of the commercialization of urban housing in 1998, China has experienced a real estate market boom.

At the same time, however, there have been growing reports of authorities forcing residents out of their homes—often using violence—to make way for new developments. Many of the victims receive inadequate compensation for their land, and are unsuccessful in seeking redress through the legal system.

This growing problem has been highlighted in a report published by Chinese Human Rights Defenders, a web-based network that monitors human rights abuses in China.

According to the report, the increase in violent relocation of residents is due in part to profiteering officials colluding with property developers. It’s also becoming clear that individuals carrying out the violence are affiliated with local authorities.

In some cases, says the report, these violent relocations have resulted in the death of victims.

Human Rights lawyer Teng Biao blames this on China’s inadequate judiciary system:

[Teng Biao, Human Rights Lawyer]:
“Gangs are involved in nearly all of the violent forced relocation and demolition. These gangs have government support. Also, the judiciary is not independent. When the court is assessing these relocation cases, it is difficult for them to remain neutral.”

The report suggests that to resolve the problem, China needs a democratic constitutional system that respects the rights of individuals. Without this, it says, the problem of violent residential relocations will only worsen, resulting in increasingly serious social conflicts.

(NTDTV)