Since a new National Security Law (NSL) was introduced in Hong Kong on 1 July 2020, there has been a massive deterioration of opportunities for public participation and the role of civil society. Chinese authorities have moved from using the NSL to crack down on pro-democracy politicians to target civil society organisations in recent months. Hong Kong civil society organisations are facing police demands for information dating back years. They fear an expansive interpretation of vague security provisions that will put a range of charitable work at risk due to overseas exchanges and funding.

In October 2021, The Rights Practice has published a briefing paper to analyse these recent developments. We fear the NSL will erode international understanding and progress on human rights and social justice goals. We hope the international community as participants, advocates, and funders will continue to show solidarity with Hong Kong civil society and help sustain it as a force for progress and human rights.

Read the full briefing paper here: Hong Kong Civil Society.