China's leader Xi Jinping visited Xinjiang this week for the region's 70th anniversary, showcasing festive celebrations. However, this contrasts sharply with the experiences of Uyghurs like Aziz Isa Elkun, who fled persecution. Under Xi's rule, mass detentions, surveillance, and cultural repression have intensified. Beijing claims these measures are for counterterrorism and social stability, while international observers and human rights groups accuse China of serious human rights violations and potential crimes against humanity, masking a harsher reality beneath the tourism facade.

Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.