BEIJING — The United States, Germany, and France have united in their demands for the immediate release of a Chinese human rights lawyer and his spouse, who received prison sentences this week on charges of alleged subversion.

On Tuesday, a court located in Suzhou handed down sentences of three years’ detention to lawyer Yu Wensheng and one year and nine months to his wife, Xu Yan, after they were found guilty of inciting subversion against the state.

Matthew Miller, spokesperson for the U.S. State Department, condemned the sentences on Friday, stating that they reflect China’s ongoing attempts to stifle those advocating for human rights and the rule of law. He urged the immediate and unconditional release of both Yu and Xu.

Similarly, the European Union, along with officials from the German and French foreign ministries, released statements supporting calls for their liberation.

Yu has been an outspoken advocate for the rights of fellow human rights lawyers, particularly during a crackdown initiated in 2015 when the Chinese government began to detain numerous renowned rights defenders.

In an open letter directed to top national offices, Yu implored an investigation into the Public Security Ministry, asserting that law enforcement was fostering a climate of terror throughout the nation, egregiously violating criminal law, and committing acts that contravene human rights standards.

Previously arrested on charges of subverting state power, Yu served a four-year prison term while Xu actively campaigned for his release. He was finally freed in 2022.

In April of the following year, while on their way to meet with the European Union delegation in Beijing, both Yu and Xu were taken into custody by police. Ultimately, they were relocated to Suzhou, where the sentences were pronounced by the Suzhou Intermediate People’s Court. The rationale behind their transfer from Beijing to Suzhou remains unclear, and attempts to reach the court for clarification went unanswered.

Their son, who reached the age of 18 just prior to their arrest, has reportedly seen “a severe decline in his mental health” since his parents were taken away, with current challenges including depression, as noted by Amnesty International.