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6 July 2023
The Asia Democracy Network vehemently condemns the issuance of arrest warrants and the placement of a bounty on eight overseas democracy activists by the Hong Kong authorities. This egregious action is a flagrant violation of human rights, freedom of expression, and democratic principles.
We express our deep concern for the safety and well-being of the targeted activists, including Nathan Law, Anna Kwok, Finn Lau, Dennis Kwok, Ted Hui, Kevin Yam, Mung Siu-tat, and Yuan Gong-yi, who have been forced into exile due to the repressive environment created by the national security law.
These arrest warrants, carrying a maximum life sentence, represent a disproportionate and oppressive response aimed at silencing dissenting voices and suppressing the fundamental rights of individuals to express their opinions freely. It is a blatant misuse of the concept of “national security” and an alarming demonstration of the extraterritorial reach of China’s authoritarian law.
The paltry bounty placed on these activists sends a chilling message about the worth placed on their lives. It instills a climate of fear and raises serious concerns about their safety, not only from the Hong Kong authorities but also from potential informants seeking to exploit the bounty.
We call upon the international community to unequivocally reject these arrest warrants and the associated bounty. The rights and safety of these activists must be safeguarded, and their invaluable contributions to the cause of democracy must be recognized and protected.
The Asia Democracy Network urges governments and international organizations to exert diplomatic pressure on the Hong Kong and Chinese authorities, demanding a review and repeal of the national security law. This law has undermined Hong Kong’s autonomy, civil liberties, and democratic values, necessitating a swift and resolute response from the international community.
We stand in unwavering solidarity with these brave activists who continue to fight for justice and democracy. The Asia Democracy Network calls upon the world to join us in defending their rights, ensuring their safety, and holding the Hong Kong authorities accountable for their blatant disregard for human rights and democratic principles.
For more information, please contact adn@adnasia.org.
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