This week, the World Uyghur Congress (WUC), together with UZDM, UNPO, and Minority Rights Group, hosted a side event at the 18th UN Forum on Minority Issues titled “Resilience in Repression: Uyghur Cultural Survival and the Role of Unrepresented Communities in Building Peaceful Societies.” WUC President Turgunjan Alawdun delivered the opening remarks, and the discussion was moderated by Zumretay Arkin, WUC Vice President. Speakers included Dolkun Isa (UZDM), Mercè Monjè (UNPO), and Claire Thomas (Minority Rights Group).
The event, attended by over 50 participants, explored the vital contributions of unrepresented nations in preserving culture and promoting democratic institutions in the countries where they live. Participants highlighted how communities like the Uyghurs maintain resilience under repression and contribute to building peaceful, inclusive societies.