Live Wednesday 1 February at 15:00
Live Wednesday 1 February at 15:00
As part of a ‘HANDS OFF TIBETANS’ DNA’ Global Week of Action an expert panel of researchers, scientists and activists will discuss the ethics of mass DNA collection in Tibet, primarily focusing on breaking down Thermo Fisher’s corporate responsibility and their involvement in China’s newest attack on Tibetan identity. Panelists will be discussing issues of privacy and consent, including how this DNA sampling and collection is being used to reinforce systemic racism and discrimination by China against Tibetans.
China’s repressive rule in Tibet has taken a sinister new turn: police are now systematically taking DNA samples from Tibetans, including children as young as five.
As many as 1.2 million Tibetans have had DNA samples taken to build a sweeping genetic database that will add to Beijing’s growing surveillance capabilities, giving China unprecedented power to monitor Tibetans, violate their privacy, and persecute them.
Aiding and abetting this mass stealing of Tibetans’ DNA is Thermo Fisher Scientific, a global company that has allowed its DNA kits to be supplied to police forces in occupied Tibet.
Thermo Fisher claims to be an ethical company, so why is it aiding China as it attempts to subject an entire people to a lifetime of surveillance and fear? Tell Thermo Fisher to stop making a profit from Tibet’s occupation!