The United States has condemned the Hong Kong government’s issuance of arrest warrants and bounties for pro-democracy activists abroad and the cancellation of seven additional passports, calling the move a blatant attempt to stifle dissent and extend transnational repression.
In a statement on Dec. 26, the U.S. Department of State said it rejected the Hong Kong government’s efforts to “ intimidate and silence individuals who choose to make the United States their home.”
“The United States does not waver in its advocacy for those who are targeted simply for exercising their right to freedom of expression,” the statement said.
This comes after Hong Kong’s security secretary, Chris Tang, accused six pro-democracy activists of committing crimes that include incitement, secession, subversion, and collusion with foreign forces. Tang said the six had compromised natural security by advocating for Hong Kong officials and judges to be sanctioned by foreign governments via speeches, social media posts, and lobbying.
In its statement, the State Department said Hong Kong’s actions disregard international norms and the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly. […]
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