Briefing: Human rights developments in Hong Kong in February 2021
This briefing describes developments in Hong Kong in February 2021 focusing on the rapid deterioration of human rights in the city following the introduction of the National Security Law in July.
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This briefing describes developments in Hong Kong in the last month focusing on the rapid deterioration of human rights in the city following the introduction of the National Security Law in July.
The continuing crackdown in Hong Kong
• Throughout February 2021, we have witnessed the growing crackdown on the pro-democracy movement, including the charging and trial of 47 pro-democracy activists for last year’s democratic primaries under the National Security Law, the beginning of the trial of prominent pro-democracy activists including the father of Hong Kong’s democracy Martin Lee for ‘unlawful assembly’, the charging of a second radio DJ for ‘sedition’ and the charging of a legal assistant for ‘collusion with foreign forces’ under the National Security Law.
Beijing proposals electoral reform and more draconian legislation
• In February 2021, Beijing signalled its intention to further undermine the city’s autonomy by announcing plans to rewrite Hong Kong’s electoral rules and introduce more draconian legislation designed to curb dissent, including a new law banning public criticism of Hong Kong and Chinese officials and a law which would give immigration officials the power to stop Hong Kongers leaving the city.
• The Hong Kong Government also announced on 28 February 2021 that it will introduce new requirements for District Councillors to swear an oath of allegiance to uphold the basic law and the national security of the PRC or face being banned from office.
The rule of law under threat
• In February 2021, the Hong Kong Government and Beijing continued their campaign to undermine the rule of law in Hong Kong. This included the Hong Kong Justice Secretary deciding that the first National Security Law case will not be heard with a jury, the Hong Kong Court of Final Appeal rejecting Jimmy Lai’s application for bail on the grounds that the National Security Law is outside of its jurisdiction, and the Hong Kong Bar Association issuing a warning that efforts by pro-Beijing lawmakers to reform the city's judiciary threaten its status as a legal centre.
Academic freedom on life support
• Beijing throughout February 2021 has used the National Security Law to continue its curtailing of academic freedom including through the introduction of national security education for students as young as six. Under pressure, this month the Chinese University of Hong Kong cuts ties with its student union which is accused of violating the National Security Law and the University of Hong Kong refused to renew the contract of a pro-democracy academic.
A free press in the crosshairs
• As part of attempts to dismantle Hong Kong's autonomy, Beijing continued in February 2021 to target journalists as part of a wider crackdown within the city. This included appointing the former Deputy Secretary of Home Affairs, Patrick Li, as head of broadcasting for public broadcaster RTHK. In response three journalists have resigned in protest citing an attack by the authorities on the editorial independence of the broadcaster.
Responses to the latest developments in Hong Kong
• Canada formally launched its lifeboat scheme for Hong Kongers.
• UK BNO app becomes second most downloaded in Hong Kong after launching in February.
• US Senate reintroduces the Hong Kong Safe Harbor Act.
• EU Parliamentarians call for Beijing Olympics to be relocated because of crackdown in Hong Kong.