The UK government has issued a strong condemnation of Hong Kong's recent cash incentives designed to encourage the arrest of pro-democracy activists residing in the UK.
UK Denounces Hong Kong's Bounty for Pro-Democracy Activists Arrests
UK Denounces Hong Kong's Bounty for Pro-Democracy Activists Arrests
UK officials vehemently oppose Hong Kong's financial reward initiative aimed at apprehending activists abroad.
The UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy and Home Secretary Yvette Cooper criticized the Hong Kong authorities' actions as a blatant example of transnational repression. In a joint statement, they expressed serious concerns regarding the offer of rewards ranging from $25,000 (HK$200,000) to $125,000 for information about 19 activists labeled as fugitives by Beijing under the controversial national security law that was enacted in 2020 following extensive anti-government protests in Hong Kong.
The accused include prominent figures such as Nathan Law, a former member of the Legislative Council, and other activists who have resisted Beijing's encroachment on Hong Kong’s autonomy. The amounts being offered depend on the perceived significance of the individual, with the most substantial rewards reportedly targeting those linked to a social media platform named "Tuesdayroad."
This bounty campaign marks the third such initiative, following earlier offers made in July and December 2023, which coincided with growing tensions surrounding the safety of pro-democracy figures in exile. Prior instances of bounty discussions have reportedly escalated risks for those being targeted, including Nathan Law, who has voiced his increasing peril since the rewards were first introduced.
Coinciding with the ongoing crackdown on dissent, a special visa program launched in 2021 has facilitated the relocation of roughly 150,000 Hong Kong residents to the UK, further branding the UK a haven for those fleeing oppression.
In their statement, Cooper and Lammy asserted that the UK government remains steadfast in its support for Hong Kong residents, emphasizing their commitment to safeguarding rights and freedoms. They further highlighted the recent legislative changes in the UK to sever legal ties with Hong Kong's extradition framework, underscoring their resolve to protect individuals from potential risks posed by Beijing’s extended reach.
As human rights advocates closely monitor the situation, the UK’s government remains vocal in its condemnation of activities perceived as threats to freedom of expression and safety of activists worldwide.
The accused include prominent figures such as Nathan Law, a former member of the Legislative Council, and other activists who have resisted Beijing's encroachment on Hong Kong’s autonomy. The amounts being offered depend on the perceived significance of the individual, with the most substantial rewards reportedly targeting those linked to a social media platform named "Tuesdayroad."
This bounty campaign marks the third such initiative, following earlier offers made in July and December 2023, which coincided with growing tensions surrounding the safety of pro-democracy figures in exile. Prior instances of bounty discussions have reportedly escalated risks for those being targeted, including Nathan Law, who has voiced his increasing peril since the rewards were first introduced.
Coinciding with the ongoing crackdown on dissent, a special visa program launched in 2021 has facilitated the relocation of roughly 150,000 Hong Kong residents to the UK, further branding the UK a haven for those fleeing oppression.
In their statement, Cooper and Lammy asserted that the UK government remains steadfast in its support for Hong Kong residents, emphasizing their commitment to safeguarding rights and freedoms. They further highlighted the recent legislative changes in the UK to sever legal ties with Hong Kong's extradition framework, underscoring their resolve to protect individuals from potential risks posed by Beijing’s extended reach.
As human rights advocates closely monitor the situation, the UK’s government remains vocal in its condemnation of activities perceived as threats to freedom of expression and safety of activists worldwide.
