Hong Kong Watch Briefing on Human Rights Developments: February 2025

This briefing describes developments in Hong Kong in February 2025 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

  • Jimmy Lai verdict expected in October

  • Albert Ho might plead guilty in subversion case

  • Chow Kim-ho’s sedition case adjourned to May

THE STATE OF THE RULE OF LAW AND POLICING

  • Hong Kong Democratic Party announces plans to dissolve

  • Hong Kong Public Opinion Research Institute halts self-funded research

  • Hong Kong government to strengthen labour union laws citing national security concerns

  • Hong Kong government sends threatening letters to neighbours of UK activist

  • US Congress introduces bipartisan resolution criticising human rights violations in Hong Kong

  • US Congress introduces bipartisan resolution condemning transnational repression against Hong Kong activists

STATE SECURITY AND ECONOMY

  • US Treasury Department issues sanctions against Hong Kong entities

  • Human rights groups urge UK Home Secretary to strengthen Foreign Influence Registration Scheme

  • G7 hosts dialogue on transnational repression

  • Canadian Minister of Foreign Affairs announces C$1.8 million funding package to protect digital security of human rights activists

  • Canada Foreign Interference Commission releases final report following Public Inquiry into Foreign Interference in Federal Electoral Processes and Democratic Institutions

  • Hong Kong authorities to slash 10,000 civil service jobs

OTHER NEWS

  • Immigration is top issue for Hong Konger Canadians: preliminary findings of Vote4HK Canada

Briefing, NewsMegan KhooHR