UN welcomes Chinese court decision to overturn death sentence of abuse victim

The United Nations human rights office today welcomed the news that a Chinese court has recently overturned the death sentence imposed on Li Yan, who killed her abusive husband, Tan Yong, in 2010.

“This important ruling by the Supreme People’s Court was made possible due to the reforms introduced in China in 2007, which allowed for a stricter review of death sentences by the higher echelons of the judiciary,” said Rupert Colville, spokesperson for the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR).

“We welcome these developments, as the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights opposes the use of the death penalty in all cases,” he added during a news conference in Geneva.

OHCHR understands that the case has been sent back to the Sichuan High People’s Court for a retrial.

Mr. Colville said it is hoped that China will expedite the adoption of a draft law on domestic violence, which is currently pending in the National People’s Congress.

“We also encourage China to ensure that all cases of violence against women, including domestic violence, are promptly, impartially and effectively investigated, and that perpetrators are prosecuted,” he stated.