Fourteen pro-democracy activists in Hong Kong were convicted on subversion charges in one of the largest trials under the Beijing-imposed national security law. The case, known as the “Hong Kong 47,” involves pro-democracy leaders accused of organizing unofficial primary elections in 2020 to gain legislative influence. Prosecutors argued their plan would have paralyzed the government, potentially causing a constitutional crisis. Thirty-one other defendants in the case had previously pleaded guilty, while two were acquitted.
The national security law, introduced in 2020, has been widely criticized for stifling dissent and dismantling Hong Kong’s political opposition. Rights groups have condemned the convictions as politically motivated, calling it a severe blow to freedoms promised under the “one country, two systems” framework. Sentencing for those convicted could range from three years to life imprisonment.
This case has drawn international criticism, with countries like the United States and United Kingdom urging the Hong Kong government to release the activists and uphold civil liberties.
