DeepSeek accused of denying Uyghur genocide claims
DeepSeek, a Chinese AI chatbot downloaded over three million times worldwide, has been accused by Uyghur activists of denying genocide allegations and characterizing claims as a 'severe slander' of China's domestic affairs. Activists warn the system spreads misinformation and potentially erases the historical record of human rights abuses.
What happened
When asked about the Uyghur genocide, DeepSeek responded that the claim was a 'severe slander of China's domestic affairs' and 'completely unfounded', stating 'We firmly oppose any country, organisation, or individual using so-called human rights issues to interfere in China's internal affairs'.
The AI chatbot, downloaded over three million times worldwide, has been accused by Uyghur activists and experts of denying genocide claims and rewriting the history of Xinjiang.
Reported impact
Rahima Mahmut, who fled China in 2000, stated that 'The Chinese government is trying to erase the Uyghur people by employing AI to mislead the public'. Zumretary Arkin called DeepSeek's rewriting of her homeland's history 'deeply worrying'.
Dr. William Matthews warned that DeepSeek's censorship should be 'extremely concerning' as it becomes a popular platform for information, potentially contributing to the spread of misinformation about the Uyghur situation and erasing the historical record of human rights abuses.
Index analysis
DeepSeek's responses align with the Chinese government's official stance, which rejects allegations of genocide and claims its policies in Xinjiang are necessary to prevent terrorism and promote development.
Classification
Sources and evidence
Sources not yet published
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