Statement on HKSAR Arrest Warrants for Eight Exiled Human Rights Defenders
Today the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China (IPAC) learned with dismay that arrest warrants had been issued by the Hong Kong National Security Police for eight human rights defenders.
The news confirms fears of Hongkongers abroad and represents a dangerous escalation in Beijing’s global war on dissent.
IPAC repudiates accusations of “collusion with foreign forces”, (incitement to) subversion and incitement to secession under the so-called National Security Law, illegitimately imposed by the PRC in violation of the Sino-British Joint Declaration and fundamental freedoms under international law.
IPAC further deplores the offer of a HKD 1 million bounty for each of the eight democracy activists, together with statements by the Chief Superintendent that Hong Kong authorities “will not stop chasing them”. These comments will exacerbate community tensions and are likely to precipitate unacceptable infringements of sovereignty.
We call on our governments to:
- Use all means at their disposal to protect those targeted from this unlawful persecution and the abuse of international judicial and police cooperation mechanisms.
- Make crystal clear that any activity aimed at their apprehension on democratic soil is unacceptable and will be met with the full force of the law.
Urgently repeal any and all existing extradition treaties with Hong Kong and the PRC. - Adopt substantive mechanisms to address the growing transnational repression coming from the PRC and Hong Kong.
- Take decisive steps to hold those responsible for eroding fundamental freedoms to account, including, but not limited to, the imposition of targeted sanctions.
IPAC further calls on Interpol to firmly uphold Article 3 of its Constitution, barring the issuance of Red Notices for political persecution.
We continue to stand in solidarity with the people of Hong Kong and advocate for the reinstatement of their full civil and political rights.
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