The conviction under the National Security Law (NSL) of pro-democracy politicians and activists in the case commonly known as “Hong Kong 47” on 30 May marks a further deterioration of fundamental freedoms and democratic participation in Hong Kong. Of the 16 defendants who had pleaded not guilty, 14 have been convicted.

The defendants who were involved in the unofficial primary elections organised by the pro-democracy opposition in Hong Kong in July 2020 are being penalised for peaceful political activity that should be legitimate in any political system that respects basic democratic principles. 

The EU is deeply concerned about the politically motivated prosecution of the 47 pro-democracy advocates, the prolonged pre-trial detention and the denial of bail for a majority of the defendants, undermining confidence in the rule of law as enshrined in the Hong Kong Basic Law. 

The case also puts into question Hong Kong’s commitment to openness and pluralism, which have been cornerstones of the city’s attractiveness as an international commercial and financial centre.

The EU, in close cooperation with its Member States, will continue to closely monitor the human rights situation and fundamental freedoms in Hong Kong.

The EU urges the authorities to respect the high degree of autonomy of Hong Kong under the ‘One Country, Two Systems’ principle and to honour Hong Kong’s international legal obligations, in particular the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the Sino-British Joint Declaration lodged with the United Nations.