In 2005 Chen Guangcheng fell foul of the authorities in the Chinese province of Shandong after drawing attention to an illegal campaign of forced abortion and sterilisation which affected thousands of women. After being placed under house arrest, Chen was sentenced in 2006 to four years in prison.

Chen, who is blind, was released from prison having completed his full sentence in September 2010. No further restrictions on his movement were imposed by the courts and according to Chinese law Chen should now be free. However after returning to Donshigu he and his family have faced a catalog of intimidation and harassment and been held prisoners in their own home. Read Petition Letter for further details.