Human Rights Watch disclosed on Friday a concerning development involving the Chinese government's investigation into Taiwanese legislator Puma Shen Pao-Yang for alleged "separatism," marking a pivotal escalation in how Beijing applies its judicial power over Taiwanese citizens. This marks the first application of China's new judicial guidelines that target proponents of Taiwanese independence, representing a considerable intensification of legal pressures on individuals from Taiwan.

The Chongqing Municipal Public Security Bureau has initiated an investigation against Shen, accusing him of co-founding the Kuma Academy, which is labeled by Chinese authorities as a "pro-Taiwanese independence separatist organization." This move by Beijing is seen as an attempt to extend its legal jurisdiction over Taiwan, a self-governing democracy that China claims under its "One-China Principle," despite never having governed the island.

In recent times, Shen has faced increasing hostility from the Chinese government, including sanctions and a ban that prohibits him and his family from entering China. His designation as a "die-hard pro-Taiwan independence element" has put him alongside other Taiwanese figures targeted by China. Maya Wang, associate Asia director at Human Rights Watch, emphasized that this investigation is part of China's broader strategy to intimidate Taiwanese citizens and restrict their lawful expressions and activities.

The case against Shen is not isolated. Other Taiwanese citizens have also faced severe legal consequences for their political positions. For instance, Taiwanese activist Yang Chih-yuan was sentenced to nine years in prison for "separatism" in August 2024, and Taiwanese publisher Li Yanhe received a three-year sentence in February 2025 for "inciting secession."

Legal experts argue that China's actions, which assert extraterritorial jurisdiction for political activities conducted in Taiwan, contravene international law norms. Shen, who resides in Taiwan, faces the risk of being tried in absentia, with potential severe penalties, including the death penalty for particularly grave charges. There's also a looming threat of extradition through third countries.

China’s stance has not only drawn international criticism but might also exacerbate tensions across the Taiwan Strait. The global community's response to these legal pursuits and their implications for regional stability are yet to unfold, as the world watches closely.