Free the Press in China!

Dear Premier Wen,

I am writing to ask that you grant an immediate release from prison to all journalists and cyber-dissidents held for exercising their right to freedom of expression, and in doing so honour commitments made by Chinese authorities in preparation for the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games.

I respectfully remind you that the Organising Committee for the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games issued the "Beijing Olympic Action Plan" in 2002, which laid out guiding principles and a series of promises as part of Beijing's preparation to be the host city. Specifically the Plan promised: "In the preparation for the Games, we will be open in every aspect to the rest of the country and the whole world. We will draw on the successful experience of others and follow the international standards and criteria."

Not only has China failed to honour its commitments, but it has increased its repression of free expression and press freedom. In accordance with China's pledge and numerous international conventions, declarations and agreements - including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights - I call upon the Chinese authorities to free all jailed journalists and bloggers ahead of the Olympics Games. According to the World Association of Newspapers, at least 30 journalists and 50 cyber-dissidents are currently held in Chinese prisons.

I respectfully call on you to take all necessary steps to ensure that in future your country stops jailing critics of the authorities, and that it fully respects international standards of freedom of expression.

I look forward to hearing from you at your earliest convenience.

Yours sincerely,