In Hong Kong, an ongoing crackdown on dissent is reaching new heights with mass subversion charges, new loyalty oaths, and large-scale plans to reform the city’s electoral system.
On March 1, hundreds of protesters gathered at a court to support 47 pro-democracy activists who were charged with “conspiracy to commit subversion” under the national security law. Most wore black, the color of choice during the 2019 protests, and chanted slogans including the banned phrases: “liberate Hong Kong, revolution of our times” and “fight for freedom, stand with Hong Kong.”
Those charged were among 55 who were arrested in a massive dawn raid last month – and later released on bail – for organizing and participating in an unofficial primary vote for the city’s now-postponed Legislative Council elections.
