Thermo Fisher’s Commitment to Human Rights: Ceasing Forensic Technology Sales in Tibet
Thermo Fisher Scientific has affirmed its commitment to human rights by announcing the discontinuation of forensic technology and equipment sales in Tibet, specifically designed for individual identification, as confirmed by a company spokesperson.
In the past, the U.S. firm was actively involved in providing specialized human identification (HID) technology in Tibet, a region in western China inhabited by approximately 4 million people. This technology, utilized for diverse applications such as tracking criminals, had become a routine component of forensic investigations in a region of this magnitude.
Strategic Decision in 2023: Ceasing HID Product Sales
However, in a strategic move in mid-2023, Thermo Fisher Scientific decided to cease the sales of HID products in Tibet. While the spokesperson did not delve into specific details regarding the reasons behind this decision, a parallel decision was noted in 2019 when the company stopped selling genetic sequencing equipment in Xinjiang, another region in China.
Since China’s control over Tibet in 1950, characterized as a “peaceful liberation” from its “feudalist” past, allegations persist regarding the suppression of religious and cultural freedoms in this predominantly Buddhist region. Despite Beijing’s consistent denial of such claims, concerns linger.
Thermo Fisher’s decision to halt sales in Tibet directly addresses concerns raised by shareholders, including Azzad Asset Management. Shareholders voiced apprehensions about potential human rights violations stemming from the utilization of such technology by law enforcement agencies.
Shareholder Communication: Azzad Asset Management’s Letter
In a letter dated December 26 to Thermo Fisher, Azzad Asset Management disclosed the withdrawal of a shareholder proposal related to human rights. This decision was prompted by Thermo Fisher’s commitment to discontinuing HID product sales in Tibet, effective December 31, 2023. The letter, signed by Thermo Fisher Vice President and Secretary Julia Chen, outlined the company’s intention to implement controls similar to those used when ceasing product sales in Xinjiang.
While the decision has garnered positive responses from some shareholders, the spokesperson refrained from commenting on the letter. Additionally, there was no clarification provided regarding the time gap between the mid-2023 decision and the December 31 implementation of the ban.
As of now, China’s State Council has not responded to requests for comment on this matter, leaving the broader implications of this decision in a state of anticipation.
Read More (Innovation – Tech Foom)
