Hong Kong Condemns US and EU Allegations Over National Security Ordinance

The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government has strongly condemned allegations from the United States and the European Union regarding its National Security Ordinance and the police's first arrest operation under the law.

The controversy centers on the conviction of 14 pro-democracy activists, part of a larger group of 47 individuals charged under the national security law. The activists were accused of subversion for their involvement in an unofficial primary election in 2020, which authorities claim was an attempt to paralyze the government.

The HKSAR Government has labeled the accusations from the US Congressional-Executive Commission on China (CECC) and the EU as 'unfounded' and 'devoid of factual basis.' The government maintains that law enforcement actions are based on evidence and carried out in strict accordance with the law, irrespective of the individuals' political stance, background, or occupation.

The police's first arrest operation under the National Security Ordinance involved individuals who allegedly published seditious posts on social media, inciting hatred towards the Central Government, the HKSAR Government, and the Judiciary. These posts also encouraged illegal activities, according to the government.

The Hong Kong government's condemnation of US and EU allegations has significant implications for the region's political environment and human rights. The continued enforcement of the National Security Ordinance could lead to further erosion of democratic freedoms and increased tensions between Hong Kong and the international community.

In response to the international criticism, the HKSAR Government emphasized that 'offenses related to seditious intentions are grave crimes, and no jurisdiction, including the US and the EU, would tolerate acts and activities that jeopardize national security.' The government reiterated that the National Security Ordinance targets only a small minority of individuals who pose a threat to national security, aiming to protect the lives, property, freedoms, and rights of Hong Kong residents.

The European Union's foreign affairs office criticized the prosecution of the 47 pro-democracy advocates, calling it 'politically motivated' and stating that it undermines confidence in the rule of law. Human rights organizations, including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, also condemned the convictions, describing them as a 'ruthless illustration' of how the National Security Law is used to silence dissent.

China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning supported Hong Kong's law enforcement and judicial authorities, opposing any foreign interference in the city's affairs. Mao Ning stated, 'No one should engage in illegal activities and try to escape justice under the pretext of democracy.'

The National Security Ordinance, enacted in 2020, has led to widespread crackdowns on pro-democracy activists in Hong Kong. The law criminalizes subversion, secession, collusion with foreign forces, and terrorist acts, granting police sweeping new powers. While authorities claim it has restored stability and peace to the city, critics argue it has led to a significant erosion of fundamental freedoms and democratic participation.

The conviction of the 14 activists is seen as a major blow to Hong Kong's pro-democracy movement, which has been dwindling since the law's implementation. The trial of the remaining defendants continues to draw international attention and criticism.

Key Takeaways

• Hong Kong government condemns US and EU allegations on National Security Ordinance.
• 14 pro-democracy activists convicted under national security law for subversion.
• Government claims law enforcement actions are based on evidence and not political stance.
• International community criticizes convictions as "politically motivated" and eroding democratic freedoms.
• Hong Kong government remains firm on National Security Ordinance, citing national security concerns.