US and EU Officials Speak Out Against Arrests of Hong Kong Activists

U.S. and European officials have expressed alarm upon learning of the arrests of several Hong Kong pro-democracy activists, lawmakers, and a local official on Aug. 30 in the lead-up to an anticipated mass protest this weekend.

On Aug. 30, at least eight were arrested on charges related to recent protests against an extradition bill that would allow the Chinese regime to transfer individuals to be trialed in mainland China.

Many feared that the proposal would erode Hong Kong’s autonomy, which was guaranteed when the territory reverted from British to Chinese rule in 1997.

Members of the local political party Demosisto Agnes Chow and Joshua Wong were accused of inciting and participating in unauthorized assembly, related to their presence at a June 21 demonstration when thousands surrounded the police headquarters to demand the release of arrested protesters. Ivan Lam, the chairman of Demosisto who is currently outside Hong Kong, was also charged with inciting an unauthorized assembly, according to local media.