Hong Kong Watch Briefing on Human Rights Developments: June 2024

This briefing describes developments in Hong Kong in June 2024 focusing on the rapid deterioration of human rights in the city following the introduction of the National Security Law and the Safeguarding National Security Bill.

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

POLITICAL PRISONERS: ARRESTS, CHARGES & TRIALS

  • Four individuals arrested for alleged sedition and public disorder on 35th anniversary of Tiananmen Square Massacre

  • Three individuals arrested for allegedly insulting China’s national anthem

  • First man charged under Article 23 for wearing allegedly seditious slogan denied bail

  • Canadian House of Commons unanimously calls for the release of the Hong Kong 47

  • Trial of Jimmy Lai adjourned until 24 July

  • Fifth anniversary of the anti-extradition law protests in Hong Kong

THE STATE OF THE RULE OF LAW AND POLICING

  • Hong Kong authorities cancel passports of six pro-democracy activists with bounties in UK

  • Canadian and British judges resign from Hong Kong’s Final Court of Appeal

STATE SECURITY AND ECONOMY

  • Hong Kong Watch publishes in-depth analysis of the business and legal risks associated with Hong Kong’s ‘Article 23’ Safeguarding National Security Ordinance

  • Hong Kong Watch, Manulife and Sun Life testify to Canadian Parliament on withholding of C$1.5 billion in MPF retirement savings

  • Canadian House of Commons and Senate pass Bill C-70 to counter foreign interference

  • Government of Canada urged to review special privileges of Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Toronto to combat transnational repression

  • European Commission increases tariffs by up to 38.1% on Chinese EV companies

OTHER DEVELOPMENTS

  • Hong Kong Watch testifies to Canadian Parliament on backlog of 9,000 permanent residency applications for Hong Kongers in Canada

  • US Congress introduces resolution condemning Article 23 legislation

Briefing, NewsMegan KhooHR