The Hong Kong government has introduced a controversial piece of legislation named "Article 23," also known as the "anti-subversion law." With appointed Hong Kong officials anxious to toe Beijing's line, the proposed legislation was written under direct pressure from China, and is far more restrictive and severe than required by the Basic Law of Hong Kong's constitution. It appears that if enacted, Hong Kong would have to ban any organization determined by China as a national security risk. This is against HK's autonomy and the "one country, two systems" principle.

Ms. Frances D'Souza, a freedom of expression expert and co-author of the "Johannesburg Principles," a set of international guidelines that ensure the protection of human rights when nations draft legislation, recently traveled to Hong Kong to speak out against the proposed Article 23. Ms. D'Souza warned that the terms of the Hong Kong government's so-called "consultation document" regarding Article 23 violates a number of international standards for protecting human rights and the freedom of expression. She said, "Article 23 undoubtedly jeopardizes individual freedom, and the freedoms of speech and information exchange." For instance, the legislation's definition of "hidden treason" could lead to citizens committing crimes without the intention, or even knowledge, of having done so.

Researchers fear that under the proposed legislation they may not be able to conduct research in certain fields of study for fear of arrest under broadly termed statutes. For example, businessmen may be charged with treason for providing banking services to Taiwan because China has enmity with Taiwan.

Falun Gong practitioners are perhaps under the greatest threat from this legislation. Until now Falun Gong practitioners have been able to practice in Hong Kong, but not without increasingly more blatant interference from the government. Falun Gong is an entirely peaceful and relaxing practice of mind and body based on principles of Truthfulness-Compassion-Tolerance. The practice is well known and respected throughout the world, but is targeted with defamation and violent repression wherever the Jiang regime's power can be wielded. Falun Gong practitioners would never want to see more people suffer this kind of pressure and attack on basic freedom.

We are appealing to our fellow Canadians to join the world in solidarity to oppose the suppression of democratic freedom by signing an online petition from 30 HK NGOs: http://www.article23.org.hk/english/main.htm

A strong voice from business, trade unions, lawyers, scholars, scientists, religious leaders, media, NGOs, world governments, and others in opposition to Article 23 shows that the threat to loss of the freedom is real, and Article 23 is against the will of its citizens.

The BC Friends of Falun Gong

Posting date: 12/18/2002
Original article date: 12/18/2002
Category: News & Media Reports