European Citizen Jailed Under China’s National Security Law in Hong Kong
In a groundbreaking development, a Portuguese man has been imprisoned under Hong Kong’s National Security Law, marking the first time a European citizen has faced such consequences. The law, imposed by China, has faced widespread criticism from various rights groups.
The individual in question, Joseph John, also known as Wong Kin-chung, holds dual Portuguese and Hong Kong nationality and had previously been residing in the UK. He was taken into custody for sharing pro-independence and anti-China content on social media platforms after returning to Hong Kong to visit his family in 2022.
After being found guilty of “secession” in February, John, aged 41, was handed a five-year prison sentence on Thursday. The law defines secession as advocating for Hong Kong’s separation from China.
Prior to his arrest, John had been leading a relatively unknown group named the Hong Kong Independence Party, managing their social media accounts and a website registered in the UK. The group had been pushing for foreign intervention in China’s governance of Hong Kong following the 2019 pro-democracy protests.
During his sentencing trial, Judge Ernest Lin accused John of distorting history, demonizing China, and inciting foreign countries to intervene in Hong Kong and China through political or violent means. The five-year sentence handed down to him has become the standard for serious National Security Law cases.
John had spent 16 months in custody prior to his sentencing, as bail rights are typically denied to individuals charged under the National Security Law in Hong Kong. This practice has become the norm in recent years.
Portuguese consular officials and representatives from the European Union were present at the Hong Kong District Court during John’s trial. Portuguese officials expressed their concern over being denied access to John during his detention.
It is reported that individuals in Hong Kong with dual nationality have faced challenges in receiving foreign consular assistance due to the enforcement of Chinese nationality regulations. Beijing does not permit dual citizenship.
John’s case marks the first instance of a dual national and foreign citizen being imprisoned under Beijing’s National Security Law, which was implemented in response to the 2019 protests in Hong Kong. Since its enactment in 2020, over 290 individuals have been arrested under the law, with 174 facing charges and 112 convictions.
The law criminalizes acts of secession, subversion, terrorism, and collusion with foreign forces, with Chinese and Hong Kong authorities defending it as a measure to maintain stability in the city. Critics argue that it suppresses political dissent and undermines civil liberties in Hong Kong.
Recently, Hong Kong introduced a new security law, Article 23, expanding authorities’ powers to target offenses like external interference and insurrection. Critics warn that this law further erodes the civil liberties of Hong Kong residents.
Overall, the implementation of China’s National Security Law in Hong Kong continues to spark controversy and draw international attention to the ongoing challenges faced by the city’s residents.
