From April 27 to May 1, 2001, publishers and news media from all over the world attended the 2001 International Book Show and News Salon which took place in Geneva's Palexpo. Falun Gong practitioners were also given a large exhibition area to introduce the practice and reveal to the world China's cruel persecution.
This year marks the fortieth anniversary of the well-known human rights organization, Amnesty International (AI). Beginning last October, AI staged a worldwide anti-torture campaign. This time it served as an honorary sponsor of the book show. Held in a prominent location, AI's exhibition provided a forum for many victims of torture to share their experiences and call on all compassionate people stand up against torture.
Over the past several days, Falun Gong practitioners from different countries took this opportunity to meet with reporters, human rights groups, and other kind-hearted people. They were invited on a daily basis to deliver speeches and/or answer questions. Their efforts to clarify the truth have gained support and sympathy from many people.
Radio Suisse Romande, the most influential French Speaking radio station, organized a seminar on "Freedom of Speech." The guest keynote speaker was Mr. Robert Menard, General Secretary of Reporters Sans Frontieres (RSF, or Reporters without Borders). Mr. Menard introduced RSF's work in saving reporters from persecution and protecting freedom of speech. He pointed out that in China, freedom of speech is being brutally violated. Specifically targeting China's violation of free speech, he expressed his outrage about the completely unjust and gross brutal persecution against Falun Gong. Mr. Menard stated, "Although I may not necessarily agree with Falun Gong's theories, I fully support Falun Gong's right to express their beliefs and to embrace their own freedom." He also discussed the harmful phenomena of some governments or business groups controlling news organizations, saying, "The news media should never violate two basic principles: 1) News media should not be used to instigate hatred and violence against people; 2) Media should not be used to carry out personal attacks. However, in the persecution of Falun Gong, the Chinese government controlled national media to do such a thing like that. It is a shameful for the Chinese government and the media in China."
In a question and answer session, a Falun Gong practitioner expressed gratitude to Mr. Menard, thanking him for his stance on the Falun Gong issue. Mr. Menard re-emphasized his view-point, "I absolutely support your freedom to express your thoughts and to cultivate your beliefs. The Chinese government's persecution is absolutely unacceptable. 'Reporters without Borders' is totally against allowing such a country like China that is brutally violating freedom of speech and freedom of basic human rights to host the 2008 Olympic Games."
At the end of the seminar, Mr. Menard wrote a short greeting to two practitioners: "Freedom of speech is a basic right for all human beings---We are with you."
A Dafa Practitioner in France
April 30, 2001
