Human Rights Watch has called on Chinese authorities to release Zhang Yadi, a Tibetan activist known by her Tibetan name Tara, who was detained for her work on a digital platform promoting Tibetan rights. Zhang, an editor for the group Chinese Youth for Tibet, has been in custody since July under charges of undermining national unity as per article 103 of China’s criminal code.

Chinese Youth for Tibet, which Zhang is part of, was formed in 2022. The group emerged in the wake of the "White Paper" protests against Beijing's Zero-Covid Policy. It seeks to encourage understanding of Tibetan culture among Chinese-speaking communities, challenge Han chauvinism, and address ethnic conflicts and prejudice.

The charges against Zhang could lead to a severe penalty, ranging from a minimum of 10 years to life imprisonment for those deemed as ringleaders in activities aimed at splitting the country. Active participants could face three to ten years, while lesser involved individuals could receive up to three years, among other possible sentences.

The detention of Zhang has also affected her legal representation. Jiang Tianyong, a noted Chinese human rights lawyer assisting Zhang, was detained on September 16 while en route to provide legal support.

This case is part of a broader pattern of crackdowns on activists within China. For instance, filmmaker Chen Pin Lin was arrested for producing a documentary about the Covid-19 lockdown measures. Additionally, in November 2023, Human Rights Watch urged Chinese officials to allow commemorations of the "White Paper" protests, emphasizing the ongoing repression faced by activists in the country.

The international community, led by organizations like Human Rights Watch, continues to monitor these developments closely and advocate for the rights and release of activists like Zhang Yadi, who play crucial roles in promoting greater awareness and understanding across diverse communities within China.