On May 13, 2023, Chen Guangcheng, Distinguished Fellow at the Center for Human Rights at The Catholic University of America, was awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws degree by the Institute of World Politics (IWP) during their Presidential Investiture and Commencement Ceremony. In his keynote address, Guangcheng shared his personal journey from a self-taught legal advocate in rural China to an internationally recognized human rights defender. He emphasized the importance of moral courage in confronting authoritarian regimes and the necessity of standing firm in one’s values, even when faced with significant personal risk.
Drawing from his experiences, Guangcheng highlighted the stark contrast between democratic constitutionalism and authoritarianism. He pointed out that while democracies acknowledge their imperfections and strive for improvement, authoritarian regimes often suppress dissent and deny their faults. This, he argued, underscores the importance of defending democratic principles and human rights globally.
Guangcheng also discussed the broader implications of China’s human rights abuses, warning of the potential threats posed by the Chinese Communist Party’s actions to global freedoms and democratic institutions. He called upon the graduates to remain vigilant and proactive in safeguarding the values of liberty and justice.
The ceremony took place at the Fairmont Hotel in Washington, D.C., and was attended by IWP faculty, students, and distinguished guests. Guangcheng’s address resonated deeply with the audience, reinforcing the critical role of moral clarity and steadfastness in the face of oppression. Click here to watch his full address.
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