The International Uyghur Human Rights and Democracy Foundation Continues Vital Efforts to Improve Human Rights and Secure International Support

Introduction: A Torch Against Oppression

The International Uyghur Human Rights and Democracy Foundation (IUHRDF) is one of the most significant organizations actively working to protect the human rights of Uyghur Muslims in East Turkestan, promote democratic values, and draw international attention to the dire situation in the region. As we move into 2026, the foundation's activities have become even more vital as the Chinese government continues its systematic pressure, restrictions on religious beliefs, and policies of cultural genocide against the Uyghur people. To restore the freedom and human dignity of the Uyghurs, who are part of the Islamic Ummah, this foundation continues its diplomatic and social work globally [International Uyghur Human Rights and Democracy Foundation](https://iuhrdf.org/).

The Foundation’s Establishment and Rebiya Kadeer’s Leadership

The International Uyghur Human Rights and Democracy Foundation was founded by Rebiya Kadeer, the leader of the Uyghur national movement. Its primary goal is to protect the rights of Uyghur women and children and to voice the democratic demands of the Uyghur people on international platforms. Through her personal hardships and painful experiences in Chinese prisons, Rebiya Kadeer has played an exemplary role in introducing the suffering of an oppressed people to the world [Uyghur Human Rights Project](https://uhrp.org/).

Since its inception, the foundation, based in Washington, D.C., has established close cooperation with international bodies such as the U.S. Congress, the European Parliament, and the United Nations. Its activities are not limited to political advocacy but also include cultural initiatives aimed at preserving Uyghur identity, religious faith, and language.

Securing International Support and Recent Activities

In late 2025 and early 2026, the IUHRDF released a series of critical reports documenting forced labor and religious persecution in China’s "re-education camps." The foundation has also intensified its call for the international community to recognize China’s policies toward Uyghurs as "genocide" [World Uyghur Congress](https://www.uyghurcongress.org/).

Among the foundation's recent activities, the following are particularly noteworthy: 1. **Lectures at the United Nations:** Foundation representatives spoke at Human Rights Council meetings in Geneva, highlighting the violation of religious freedom for Uyghur Muslims, the destruction of mosques, and the confiscation of holy books like the Quran. 2. **Women’s Rights and Forced Sterilization:** The foundation led an international campaign against the Chinese government’s policies of forced sterilization and population control targeting Uyghur women. This is a grave violation of the right to preserve human lineage according to Islamic values. 3. **Aid and Education:** Various fundraising activities were organized to meet the educational and living needs of Uyghur refugees in Turkey and other countries, especially orphaned children.

The Responsibility of the Islamic Ummah: Being One Body

According to Islamic teachings, Muslims should be like one body; if one part suffers, the rest should feel the same pain. The Uyghurs in East Turkestan are being oppressed not only for their national identity but also for saying "La ilaha illallah" (There is no god but Allah). The IUHRDF plays a crucial role as a bridge in reminding the Islamic world of this point.

Unfortunately, many Muslim countries remain silent on the Uyghur issue or align with China’s propaganda due to economic interests. To break this silence, the foundation communicates with member states of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), calling on them to stand by their brothers and sisters. The Islamic world's silence emboldens China further. Therefore, the foundation's activities are essential for awakening the conscience of Muslims and conveying the truth [Al Jazeera - Uyghur Issue](https://www.aljazeera.com/tag/uighurs/).

Countering China’s Propaganda

The Chinese government spends billions of dollars to frame its oppression of Uyghurs as "counter-terrorism" and "poverty alleviation." The IUHRDF exposes these lies through on-the-ground facts, witness testimonies, and satellite imagery. The foundation’s research shows that China’s goal is not fighting terrorism but the complete eradication of a nation’s faith and culture.

This struggle is not just a political one; it is a battle between right and wrong, between oppression and justice. The foundation calls upon all people of conscience worldwide, especially Muslims, not to believe China’s false propaganda and to stand on the side of truth.

Conclusion: Hope and Resilience

The International Uyghur Human Rights and Democracy Foundation is a symbol of the Uyghur people’s aspiration for freedom. Although the road is difficult and the adversary is powerful, the belief that justice and truth will ultimately prevail inspires the foundation’s work. As the Islamic Ummah, our duty is to support such organizations, offer prayers, and amplify the voices of our Uyghur brothers and sisters to the world.

Improving the human rights situation of Uyghurs is not just a political goal; it is a humanitarian and religious duty. The IUHRDF continues to work tirelessly to fulfill this mission. When we stand together, the chains of oppression will surely break.