State-Sponsored Organ Trafficking: an Analysis of Prisoners of Conscience in the People's Republic of China

• In Event: Dynamics of Human Trafficking Across the Globe

Abstract

This paper examines the state crime of utilizing prisoners of conscience for organ trafficking by the People's Republic of China (PRC). Drawing on state crime victimology frameworks, the study analyzes the historical and contemporary practices of the PRC in harvesting organs from executed prisoners, particularly Falun Gong practitioners. The research delves into the definition of state crime and its victims, exploring challenges in conceptualization and delineation from other forms of crime. It scrutinizes state-sanctioned crimes against religious groups globally and within the PRC, tracing the historical background of organ procurement from executed prisoners. The paper highlights international responses and critiques of these practices, emphasizing the implications for victimology and legislative efforts. Through a case study approach, it underscores the state-organized nature of forced organ harvesting from Falun Gong practitioners, framing them as victims of state crime. Finally, the study advocates for increased scholarly and legislative attention to the victimology of state-sponsored crimes, emphasizing the urgent need for international action to address these human rights violations and protect vulnerable populations in the future.

Author

• Chelsey Stull, Old Dominion University