ISHR Condemns China’s National Security Law in Hong Kong
Geneva [Switzerland], July 2 – The International Service for Human Rights (ISHR) has strongly criticized the National Security Law (NSL) imposed by the People’s Republic of China (PRC) in Hong Kong in 2020. This law has significantly suppressed freedom of expression in the city.
Impact on Freedom of Expression
On the fourth anniversary of the NSL, the ISHR supported United Nations experts who called the law one of the most ‘draconian’ ever adopted. The NSL has been widely criticized for its severe repression of Hong Kong residents.
Report Highlights
A report titled ‘The National Security Law in Hong Kong: Adverse Impacts and Increased Risk of Reprisals’ highlighted that many activists have been jailed, and numerous NGOs have faced operational difficulties under the NSL. The report stated, ‘Since the promulgation of the NSL, Hong Kong’s once-vibrant environment for civil society has undergone a sea change. Many activists have been prosecuted and jailed for their activities. Many NGOs, both local and international, have decided to cease operations or dramatically shift their work, while other activists and NGO workers have chosen to – or been forced to – abandon their rights work or leave the city and continue work in exile.’
Amnesty International’s View
The Chairman of the Board of Amnesty International explained that the NSL has made it nearly impossible for human rights organizations in Hong Kong to work freely and without fear. The relationship between the government and civil society is facing new strains, directly linked to the NSL, impacting the political climate in the city.
Changes in Legislative Council
The Hong Kong Legislative Council (LegCo) used to provide a platform for NGOs and civil society to express their views on human rights issues. However, after the adoption of the NSL and the ‘patriots only’ election, the LegCo no longer allows alternative views or civil society voices to be heard. Since 2021, there has been no public agenda item where civil society groups in Hong Kong were invited to give their views.
Increased Risks
The ISHR report further stated, ‘Individuals or organizations based in Hong Kong – or even having links to Hong Kong – cannot reasonably continue to assume the ability to safely engage with the UN over human rights issues. The NSL directly places them at new and heightened risk of reprisals and intimidation.’