A US-based Chinese dissident artist known for satirical sculptures of Mao Zedong has faced a closed-door trial in China on accusations of defaming national heroes, rights advocates and family members have said The Guardian - Business.
Why it matters: The prosecution highlights escalating legal risks for overseas critics returning to China and underscores ongoing crackdowns on artistic expression regarding the nation's political history.
- Gao Zhen faces a maximum sentence of three years in prison if convicted The Guardian - Business.
Driving the news: The closed-door hearing took place on Monday at the Sanhe city people's court in Hebei province and concluded without an immediate verdict The Guardian.
- Gao was detained in August 2024 during a family visit after having made several trouble-free trips since relocating to New York in 2022 The Guardian.
- European Union diplomats attempted to attend the court proceedings but were blocked from entering by authorities The Guardian.
State of play: The artist's wife and young son remain trapped inside the country while he continues to face severe legal pressure in custody The Guardian.
- Gao's wife Zhao Yaliang and their seven-year-old US-citizen son are currently subjected to exit bans preventing them from leaving China The Guardian.
- Gao is reportedly suffering from malnutrition, lumbar spine disease, and chronic knee ailments while detained The Guardian.