WASHINGTON – The United States condemned Hong Kong’s latest efforts to target overseas democracy activists, labeling the moves a “campaign of transnational repression,” according to a statement from the State Department on Thursday.
The criticism follows the issuance of arrest warrants and bounties for six democracy activists living abroad and the cancellation of passports for seven others, including individuals residing in the U.S.
“These actions demonstrate Hong Kong authorities’ disregard for international norms and for the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly,” the statement read.
The U.S. government vowed to continue advocating for individuals targeted under Hong Kong’s controversial national security laws, which it says are being misused to silence dissent.
“We reject the Hong Kong government’s efforts to intimidate and silence individuals who choose to make the United States their home,” the department said. “The extraterritorial application of Hong Kong’s national security laws is a form of transnational repression that threatens U.S. sovereignty and the human rights and fundamental freedoms of people all over the world.”
The Biden administration called on Hong Kong to halt its use of national security laws to stifle opposition, emphasizing that freedom of expression and peaceful assembly are fundamental rights.
