Alarm raised over Chinese CCTV cameras guarding ‘symbol of democracy’ Magna Carta

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 3 min read 100% complete by Rob DaviesJanuary 31, 2026 at 08:24 AM

AI Summary

medium article 3 min

Campaigners are raising alarms about the use of Chinese-made CCTV cameras at sites housing significant symbols of democracy and human rights, specifically Salisbury Cathedral, home to the Magna Carta, and the Parthenon temple in Greece. The security cameras are provided by Dahua Technology and Hikvision, companies already removed from sensitive UK government sites due to security concerns. The World Uyghur Congress (WUC) and a Ukrainian organization have voiced concerns that Dahua's technology has allegedly aided in the persecution of Uyghurs in China and been exploited by Russia during the invasion of Ukraine. The WUC highlights Dahua's alleged involvement in facial recognition systems targeting Uyghurs, deeming it inappropriate for protecting a symbol of democracy. Salisbury Cathedral claims to not have received the WUC's letter.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

England 30% Runnymede 30% Keir Starmer 40% Hangzhou 40% Russia 50% Ukraine 50% Uyghur Genocide 70% Salisbury Cathedral ×270% Hikvision 70% China ×480% World Uyghur Congress (WUC) ×480% Dahua Technology ×490%

Keywords

cctv cameras 90% chinese technology 80% magna carta 80% human rights 70% surveillance 70% uyghur genocide 70% dahua technology 70% security concerns 60% salisbury cathedral 60% data security 50%