Credit Suisse’s newly nominated director is sparking concerns over her controversial views on human rights.
Jin Keyu, who boasts an impressive resume, has been nominated to become a director at Credit Suisse. But she also has made concerning statements on human rights issues, according to a report from «Tages-Anzeiger» (in German only), a Swiss daily newspaper.
«Legitimate» Re-Education Camps
Jin has called China’s widely condemned treatment of the Uighur Muslim minority in Xinjiang province, which includes «re-education camps,» a «legitimate» way of teaching Chinese language and culture, the report said. That’s a stark contrast to the United Nations' description of systemic human rights violations, including torture, forced sterilization and separating children from parents.
In addition, Jin has said the recent pro-democracy demonstrations in Hong Kong were due to instability caused by some Hong Kong citizens and not the actions of Beijing, the report said.
Credit Suisse told the Swiss newspaper that Asia, particularly China, are important markets for the investment bank, and proposing experts to the board would give it a better understanding of the region.
Credit Suisse’s Human Rights Position
Jin’s views are a stark contrast to Credit Suisse’s stated position in its 2021 sustainability report, which said the bank recognized its responsibilities under the International Bill of Human Rights and considered human rights issues in its risk management processes.
«In general, heightened attention is required when a client operates in a jurisdiction that experiences political instability, weak governance or repression of minority groups,» the sustainability report said.
On its website, Credit Suisse states: «We are committed to respecting human rights. In our role as an employer and as a user and provider of services, we seek to respect human rights as a key element of conducting business responsibly.»
«Economic Issues»
«We expect our business partners to recognize and uphold human rights,» the website states.
When «Tages-Anzeiger» sought comment from Jin on her political views, she told the newspaper, «I am an economist and focus on economic issues. I don't think I have ever given an interview in which I commented on Hong Kong or Xinjiang.» She then only answered questions about the economy, the report said. The comments are translated from German.
Jin’s views closely follow China’s official positions, the report said, noting her father is Jin Liqun, president of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, a China-led alternative to the World Bank.
Jin is an economics professor at the London School of Economics and previously taught at Yale University and UC Berkley. The Chinese citizen is also a non-executive director at Richemont Group and Qingdao AInnovation venture.
