Canada Calls for Immediate Release of Dr. Gulshan Abbas Amid Transnational Repression Concerns

Senator Leo Housakos has introduced a motion in the Canadian Senate urging for the release of Dr. Gulshan Abbas, detained by China since 2018. The motion, just before Dr. Abbas's 64th birthday, highlights the issue of transnational repression against Uyghurs, gaining significant international attention.

In a pressing appeal, Senator Leo Housakos has presented a motion in the Canadian Senate demanding the immediate release of Dr. Gulshan Abbas, according to a recent press statement from Campaign For Uyghurs (CFU). The motion surfaced just days before Dr. Abbas's 64th birthday, marking yet another year in detention under what CFU deems as unjust imprisonment orchestrated by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).

Dr. Abbas, a retired medical professional and sister of CFU Executive Director Rushan Abbas, vanished in September 2018 shortly after Rushan voiced concerns about the CCP's persecution of Uyghurs. After two years of silence on her status, it was revealed that Dr. Abbas received a sentence based on what CFU describes as fabricated allegations through secretive legal processes. The UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, in its 95th session, classified her detention as arbitrary and a violation of international law.

Senator Housakos's motion follows awareness raised during the Canadian launch of Rushan Abbas's memoir in April 2026, underscoring his dedication to human rights and the fight against transnational repression. As Dr. Abbas's birthday looms, CFU is rallying international support to pressure for her release, urging the use of #FreeGulshanAbbas to enhance global awareness and push for decisive action.