China: CFWIJ is alarmed by the possible detention of Sophia Huang Xueqin

September 27, 2021 - Sophia Huang Xueqin, a 33-year-old freelance journalist, activist, and a leading figure in China's #Metoo movement, has reportedly gone missing. She had planned to fly to London from Guangzhou via Hong Kong to attend postgraduate studies at the University of Sussex. According to her friends, Sophia has been untraceable since September 19. There are concerns that Chinese authorities might have apprehended the journalist along with Wang Jianbing, a labor rights activist. The CFWIJ is alarmed by the possible detention of Sophia and demands Chinese authorities acknowledge and investigate her disappearance. 

Sophia has worked as an investigative reporter for the New Express and the Southern Capital Weekly. She has helped several #MeToo survivors through their cases of sexual harassment over the years. She became a notable feminist icon in 2018 after she supported a plaintiff in an alleged sexual harassment case against a university professor. The activist also published a survey report on women journalists facing sexual assault and harassment. In 2019, the Guangzhou police detained Sophia for her supposed involvement in anti-government protests. She was released after three months. 

The reasons behind Sophia’s disappearance are not yet clear, but there are concerns that Chinese authorities may have detained her under “incitement to subvert state power" charges. Sophia could face severe punishment and torture if she is found guilty of subversion. 

The British government awarded Sophia the Chevening Scholarship, and she was apparently prepared to travel before she went missing. A University of Sussex spokesperson has also cited concerns saying, "We are concerned about the safety and whereabouts of our student. Our staff is liaising with Chevening to seek further details.”

The Coalition For Women In Journalism is troubled by Sophia's disappearance. We demand Chinese authorities immediately share her whereabouts or launch an investigation into the matter. We remain worried that the authorities have intercepted Sophia and are holding her captive. The CFWIJ believes that Chinese authorities must adequately address and inform the public about Sophia's situation. We stand in solidarity with the journalist and hope for her safe return.