China charges journalist Du Bin under public order offense

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published 1 hour ago |  JP Asia Desk

Human Rights Watch says China has charged journalist Du Bin with a public order offense, raising fresh concerns about risks for investigative reporting and documentary work inside China.

Summary

BEIJING  — Human Rights Watch said Chinese authorities have formally charged veteran journalist and documentary maker Du Bin with picking quarrels and provoking trouble, a criminal offense frequently used against critical voices.

The rights group said the charge reflects a pattern of using broad public order provisions to target journalists, writers, and filmmakers whose work addresses politically sensitive subjects.

Legal charge and rights group response

According to Human Rights Watch, the offense of picking quarrels and provoking trouble is widely criticized for its vague wording and flexible application, allowing authorities to pursue cases that would not meet criminal thresholds under clearer statutes.

The organization warned that such charges can carry serious legal consequences and prolonged uncertainty for those accused, even when cases do not proceed quickly to trial.

Impact on journalism and media work 

Media observers say the case is likely to further chill investigative reporting and documentary production inside China, particularly on issues that authorities consider sensitive or destabilizing.

Human Rights Watch said newsrooms covering China should anticipate heightened scrutiny of reporting topics, along with increased legal and personal risks for correspondents, contributors, and freelancers working on China-related stories.

KEY POINTS:

• Human Rights Watch reports Du Bin has been formally charged under a public order offense
• The charge of picking quarrels and provoking trouble is often used against critical expression
• Rights groups say the provision’s vagueness enables broad enforcement
• The case may discourage investigative and documentary journalism on sensitive topics
• Newsrooms are advised to strengthen legal and safety planning for China coverage

ATTRIBUTION: Reporting is based on statements and documentation published by Human Rights Watch.

PHOTO: Du Bin (South China Morning Post)