U.S. Embassy in China | Unjust Verdicts Under Hong Kong’s National Security Law

November 20, 2024

News Statement

Matthew Miller, Spokesperson for the Department of State
November 19, 2024

The United States strongly condemns the sentences announced today in the trial of a group of pro-democracy advocates in Hong Kong under the National Security Law, the so-called “NSL 47 case.” The 45 defendants sentenced today were subjected to harsh prosecutions, and many now face life-altering imprisonment simply for their peaceful participation in political activities protected under Hong Kong’s Basic Law. In response, the State Department is taking steps to impose new visa restrictions on multiple Hong Kong officials responsible for implementing the National Security Law, under section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act. We will continue to track the implementation of the national security law in Hong Kong and promote human rights accountability for the People’s Republic of China and Hong Kong.

We call on Hong Kong authorities to immediately and unconditionally release these 45 individuals, as well as all political prisoners detained for similar reasons. These harsh sentences undermine confidence in Hong Kong’s judicial system and damage Hong Kong’s international reputation. We continue to urge the Government of the People’s Republic of China and Hong Kong authorities to uphold Hong Kong’s judicial independence, cease using the vaguely-defined national security law to suppress those who peacefully express political views, and restore the openness that is critical to Hong Kong’s vitality and success.

To view the original content: https://www.state.gov/unjust-sentencing-under-hong-kongs-national-security-law/ 

This translation is for reference only and the original English version should be considered the authoritative source.