In recent news, the Southeast and East Asian Women’s Association (SEEAWA) has spoken out about one of the UK’s most prolific rapists, Zhenhao Zou, recently convicted in the UK, whose abuse in both the UK and China have sparked extensive debate. SEEAWA’s insights reflect the complexities surrounding cultural perceptions, our commentary offers a necessary lens through which to examine his actions.
The Case of Zou
Zhenhao Zou, a Chinese PhD student, was found guilty in London last month of drugging and raping 10 Chinese women across two continents. Sadly, at his trial, police said they had found video evidence, filmed by Zou himself, of potentially 50 more victims, and they say that there are many more victims out there. Since his prosecution, 23 more women have come forward to report their assault.
Zou’s case has been a flashpoint in the UK, bringing to light not only the harrowing details of the crime but also the broader societal implications that arise when such incidents occur. The crimes have been centred around the Chinese community, which is normally very reticent about discussing issues such as rape.
In the BBC article ‘I didn’t feel able to come forward’ – Chinese victims tell BBC about serial rapist, SEEAWA highlighted the barriers to reporting rape as someone from overseas. In the Guardian article, ‘They suffer in silence’: case of serial rapist Zhenhao Zou highlights barriers to justice for east Asian women in UK, SEEAWA gave a perspective from Chinese and East and Southeast Asian communities. Finally, On BBC Radio 1 our case officer, Lyn, shared information on how to access help in the UK if one is a victim of domestic violence, sexual assault, or rape.
Through our discussions with the media, SEEAWA provided a UK East and Southeast Asian feminist framework for understanding the reactions to Zhao’s case. We noted that the attitudes towards rapists are often shaped by deeply entrenched cultural narratives, and even in the UK, five out of six women do not report their rape.
Looking to the future
Despite these challenges, SEEAWA hopes for a transformative shift in attitudes. We emphasise the importance of education and advocacy in reshaping the narrative around sexual violence. In our work, by fostering discussions on what constitutes consent and teaching respect for bodily autonomy, there is potential for societal change. Activism, particularly from young people and women’s rights groups, has been instrumental in pushing back against outdated beliefs and demanding justice for victims.
As the discourse surrounding Zhao’s case continues, SEEAWA’s voice stands as a critical reminder of the work that remains to be done. Our call to action emphasises the necessity of reshaping cultural attitudes towards sexual violence, supporting survivors, and holding perpetrators accountable.
A case in France recently highlighted Gisele Pelicot’s plight, in which her husband drugged and allowed her to be raped by several men. Remaining defiant, she said: ‘it’s not for us to have shame – it’s for them.’
SEEAWA believes that by engaging in constructive dialogue, advocating for survivors, and educating communities, society can work towards a future where justice prevails and victims are empowered.