Hong Kong Watch Briefing on Human Rights Developments: October 2024

This briefing describes developments in Hong Kong in October 2024 focusing on the rapid deterioration of human rights in the city following the imposition of the National Security Law and the passage of Safeguarding National Security Ordinance.

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

POLITICAL PRISONERS: ARRESTS, CHARGES & TRIALS

  • Hong Kong judge rejects Jimmy Lai’s bid for trial by jury in libel case against Beijing-backed newspaper as British Prime Minister calls for Lai’s release 

  • Former Stand News editor Patrick Lam seeks to overturn conviction for publishing “seditious” materials

  • Chow Hang-tang barred from summoning overseas witnesses in national security trial

  • Sentencing for 47 democrats tentatively scheduled for 19 November

  • ‘Grandpa Chan’ appears in court for displaying protest banners at Hong Kong park

THE STATE OF THE RULE OF LAW AND POLICING

  • National Security Committee responds to first legal challenge of Article 23 legislation

  • Twenty-three civil society and human rights organisations urge UK Foreign Secretary to raise concerns about Article 23 legislation, MPF and Jimmy Lai during visit to China

STATE SECURITY AND ECONOMY

  • Hong Kong Watch appears on Foreign Interference Public Inquiry Consultation Panel

OTHER NEWS

  • Hong Kong Watch hosts parliamentary seminar on the UK’s Hong Kong policy

  • Chancellors and Vice-Chancellors of UK Universities urge Department for Education to grant Home Fee status to BNO Hong Kongers

  • Special Committee on Canada–People’s Republic of China Relationship urged to reconsider suspension of regular meetings by 10 human rights organisations

  • Hong Kong Watch Canada holds seminar on Hong Kong’s special status in Canadian Parliament

  • Hong Kong Watch makes submission to UN Special Rapporteur on freedom of religion or belief

Briefing, NewsMegan KhooHR