Thank you for your email.
The program clearly presented "Undercover in Tibet" as a personal journey and perspective from a Tibetan refugee who was returning to Tibet for the first time in more than 10 years of exile. The ABC understands there are clear differences between Tibetans and Han Chinese on the status of Tibet. Some Tibetans argue for an independent state, others for Chinese sovereignty in return for genuine autonomy while the Chinese government sees Tibet as an inalienable part of Chinese territory.
However, there have been many instances of human rights violations documented by the United Nations and Human Rights Watch and condemnation of China's human rights record in Tibet has been made by many countries, including Australia.
The ABC cannot agree with your view that "the documentary seems to try to give viewers the impression that this policy (birth control) specifically targets Tibetan people." In fact, the report said the
following: "She says she had a child out of quota under the terms of China's one child policy. As a result she was given the choice of either a fine she couldn't pay or sterilisation."
The ABC understands that while substantial numbers of Chinese and foreign tourists do visit Tibet, there are limitations on freedom of movement around the region and there are stricter limitations on the foreign media reporting in Tibet. Following the March riots this year, foreign journalists need special permission to visit Tibet and it is usually refused.
Having reviewed the program, the ABC believes it is in keeping with its Code of Practice.
http://abc.net.au/corp/pubs/documents/200806_codeofpractice-revised_2008
Nevertheless, please be assured that your comments have been duly noted by the program team.
Yours sincerely
Kieran Doyle
Audience and Consumer Affairs
