Hong Kong sentences 45 opposition activists under National Security Law

The special administrative region of Hong Kong has sentenced 45 opposition activists under China’s National Security Law. The Human Rights Office (OHCHR) has raised serious concerns, highlighting the potential erosion of fundamental freedoms in the region.

Spokesperson for OHCHR Jeremy Laurence condemned the use of the regulation to criminalise activities protected under international human rights rules, such as freedom of expression, association and peaceful assembly.

Enacted in July 2020, the highly controversial regulation introduced severe penalties for offences described as subversion and terrorism. Since its implementation, more than 100 individuals have been arrested, including prominent pro-democracy figures.

#HongKong: We are gravely concerned by the use of the National Security Law to convict & impose harsh sentences on 45 people today.

These convictions & sentences must be carefully reviewed. All cases not fully meeting these standards should be quashed.

— UN Human Rights (@UNHumanRights) November 19, 2024

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The High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, has expressed serious concerns over the ‘broad and vague provisions’ as they could be “arbitrarily applied to curb freedom of expression and target dissenting voices.”

Türk has also criticised the recent expansion of the regulation, including a March 2024 ordinance adding fresh categories of offences such as sabotage and treason, stressing that these expansions increase the potential for further suppression of opposition.

He has urged the suspension of the regulation’s application, highlighting the need to safeguard human rights and democratic freedoms in Hong Kong. Beyond the people directly impacted by criminal proceedings, the regulation has also impacted others.