Hong Kong Watch hosts dialogue between HK activists, US and UK policy makers
Hong Kong Watch was pleased today to host a private briefing session connecting senior US Congressional staff, journalists, and human rights experts, as well as UK policy makers with Hong Kong activists.
The discussion covered a range of issues including the recent arrests of prominent democracy activists, the deterioration of the rule of law, the independence of the judiciary, the recent threats by the Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office to bar lawmakers from office, recent comments by the Government in Beijing that its Liaison Office is exempt from Article 22 of Hong Kong Basic Law, and the upcoming Legislative Council elections in September.
Commenting on the event, Hong Kong Watch co-founder and Chair Benedict Rogers said:
“Given the growing encroachment by Beijing in the affairs of Hong Kong demonstrated by the latest round of politically motivated arrests of prominent activists, high level international discussions and engagement on the future of Hong Kong is needed now more than ever.
Well attended and under Chatham House rules, today’s thoughtful discussion offered an invaluable opportunity for our supporters to hear from activists on the ground, offer solidarity, and discuss what concrete actions the international community must take to stand up for the people of Hong Kong.”
Key comments from activists at the event:
“China’s Liaison Office has direct supervisory powers over the Hong Kong Government. It is not just exempt but directs policy, this includes the recent Cabinet reshuffle where Carrie Lam was required to sack four ministers and replace them with people selected by the Liaison Office.”
“Hong Kong officials do not have a full understanding of Hong Kong Basic Law. It is absurd to say that the Liaison Office is exempt from Article 22 after years of it being commonly understood to be included under it.”
“The Chief Executive cannot stand up for the people of Hong Kong until the people of Hong Kong elect them through universal suffrage.”
“The judicial system is being used to supress dissidents and young protest leaders. The Department for Justice uses the courts as testing grounds for criminal laws and ordinance rarely used to charge activists. Activists are deliberately dragged through the courts with various cases at a huge financial and emotional cost.”
“The Chinese Government is undertaking comprehensive suppression in Hong Kong with a multi-pronged attack including on civil society. Medical workers on strike have been threatened and have no doubt been put on a list with action likely to be taken against them in the future.”
“Beijing looks ready to step up mass disqualifications of lawmakers ahead of the Legislative Council elections. This would be a substantial escalation from Beijing, particularly as those who look set to be targeted have never advocated for self-determination.”