Oxford University Press (OUP) has announced it will stop publishing Forensic Sciences Research (FSR) after the 2025 volume, following years of scrutiny over ethical standards in studies involving DNA collection from Uyghur populations in China. The journal, sponsored by China’s Ministry of Justice, has faced criticism for several papers that analysed genetic data from heavily surveilled ethnic minorities.
One 2020 study examined blood samples from 264 Uyghurs in Ürümqi, with the lead author affiliated with the Xinjiang Police College. OUP issued an “expression of concern” in 2024 over whether participants could freely consent, given the involvement of state security authorities. Two other papers based on DNA samples have been retracted since 2023 due to ethical issues, with researchers from Chinese police forces.
Critics argue that studies conducted under China’s state security apparatus may not meet international ethical standards, especially as Uyghurs in Xinjiang face intense surveillance and compulsory DNA collection reportedly under health check guise. The UN has described China’s policies in Xinjiang as potentially constituting crimes against humanity.
Yves Moreau, a professor at the University of Leuven, who raised concerns about OUP’s association with FSR, welcomed the decision but noted the brief public statement “fails to address the important issues at stake”. OUP declined to elaborate on its reasons for ending the relationship, which began in 2023.
