World Report 2012: China | Human Rights Watch
Against a backdrop of rapid socio-economic change and modernization, China continues to be an authoritarian one-party state that
imposes sharp curbs on freedom of expression, association, and religion; openly rejects judicial independence and press freedom; and arbitrarily restricts and suppresses human rights defenders and organizations, often through extra-judicial measures.
Health
On August 2 the government announced the closure of 583 battery-recycling factories linked to widespread lead poisoning. However, it has failed to substantively recognize and address abuses
including denial of treatment for child lead poisoning victims and harassment of parents seeking legal redress that Human Rights Watch uncovered in a June 2011 report of lead poisoning in Henan, Yunnan, Shaanxi, and Hunan.
People with HIV/AIDS continued to face discrimination. In September an
HIV-positive female burn victim was denied treatment at three hospitals in Guangdong province due to stigma about her status. On September 8 an HIV-positive school teacher launched a wrongful dismissal suit against the Guizhou provincial government after it refused to hire him on April 3 due to his HIV status.
In June, amidst outcry against the visit, China hosted Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir, who is wanted by the ICC on charges of war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide.
China's human rights crackdown - interactive guide
China's human rights crackdown - interactive guide
Artist Ai Weiwei was one of many being held in the Chinese authorities' biggest move against dissidents and activists for years. Below are those others detained, some of whom are now released. Information is from human rights groups and inquiries by the Guardian