Largest National Security Trial In Hong Kong History

The Chinese city state of Hong Kong is currently experiencing its biggest national security court trial. The supposed criminals have been dubbed the “Hong Kong 47” in reference to the number in the group accused. According to officials, the supposed crime is “subversion” and undermining the state.

In 2020, they held an unofficial primary election; over 600,000 voters participated. The election was deemed unofficial and criminal by the Chinese government. It was an unsanctioned election being handled by pro-democracy activists. This of course struck a nerve with the Chinese government. Most of the 47 who have been arrested were linked to this election, but others have been linked for organizing the 2019 Hong Kong protest.

Most of the accused are pro-democracy demonstrators, journalists, and opposition leaders and lawmakers. Among the accused notable names are Joshua Wong (important role in 2019 protest), Benny Tai (former Hong Kong University professor), and Claudia Mo (opposition leader). Some of these accused have already been in prison and have already pleaded guilty. Only 16 have not.

Many of these arrests have stemmed from the fairly recent National Security Law (NSL for short) which came into effect in 2020 after the 2019 protests. Both Hong Kong and the Chinese governments have stated that the law is required to maintain stability. The law itself criminalizes secession, subversion, terrorism, and collision with foreign and external forces. NSL has reduced the autonomy of Hong Kong and critics even call it “the end of Hong Kong”. The 47 aren’t even first to bear the consequences of NSL. Reports from the BBC say hundreds have been arrested since its passing by Hong Kong lawmakers.

The trial is expected to take place over the course of 90 days. Since the NSL was passed in 2020, trials have not been by jury but instead by three hand picked judges. This would make sense considering how citizens of Hong Kong might favor the 47.