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Statement Condemning the Passage of Article 23 and Calling for Action from the Japanese Government

Statement Condemning the Passage of Article 23 and Calling for Action from the Japanese Government

Date
19 March 2024

For Immediate Release — March 19th, 2024

Lady Liberty Hong Kong expresses profound concern and unequivocal condemnation of the expedited passage of the Safeguarding National Security Bill under Article 23 of the Hong Kong Basic Law, which came into effect on March 23, 2024. This legislation represents a severe blow to the freedoms and human rights of Hong Kong, surpassing even the impact of the National Security Law imposed by Beijing in 2020.

The passage of Article 23 criminalises five primary offences in terms that significantly endanger peaceful engagement in human rights activities, particularly threatening freedom of speech and expression. The bill's vague language poses a dire threat to civil liberties — including prolonged detention and restricted access to legal representation — and undermines decades of democratic progress.

In light of these alarming developments, Lady Liberty Hong Kong calls for the immediate repeal of both the National Security Law and the newly enacted Article 23 legislation. We demand an end to the persecution of political figures, activists, and journalists, and to the suppression of free speech essential to a vibrant civil society.

Lady Liberty Hong Kong urges the Japanese government to take a stand and condemn the Hong Kong and Chinese authorities for dismantling the civil rights of Hong Kong's people. Japan, as a steadfast advocate for human rights and democracy in Asia, has a critical role in addressing these violations and supporting Hong Kong's people in their fight for freedom and autonomy.

"The passage of Article 23 is a clear indication of Beijing's disregard for the basic human rights of freedom of speech and expression," said Alric Lee, Co-Founder of Lady Liberty Hong Kong. "It is crucial for the international community, including Japan, to hold Chinese and Hong Kong officials accountable and show unwavering support for the democratic values that Hong Kong has long fought to maintain."

Lady Liberty Hong Kong remains committed to advocating for the rights and freedoms of the people of Hong Kong. We call upon our allies and supporters in Japan and worldwide to join us in ensuring that the voices of Hong Kong are heard and protected.

Contact: admin@ladylibertyhongkong.com