ASIATODAY.ID, HONG KONG — The United Nations has issued a sharp and urgent warning.
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk expressed deep concern over reports that “draconian security laws” in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region are being used to silence residents demanding answers after the deadly apartment fire that claimed at least 160 lives last month.
The inferno tore through the Wang Fung Court complex in Tai Po while the building was undergoing renovations, triggering grief, anger, and mounting public pressure for transparency. Yet instead of space for open discussion, Türk warns that civic freedoms appear to be tightening.
UN: Hong Kong Residents Deserve Truth, Not Intimidation
In his statement, Türk stressed that times of tragedy require more dialogue—not less.
“At a tragic time like this, the space for discussion and debate on issues of major public interest and concern is more important than ever,” he said on December 9, 2025.
“The people of Hong Kong understandably want answers and accountability.”
He welcomed the government’s steps to form an independent review committee and launch criminal and anti-corruption probes. However, he underlined that these measures fall short without a full-fledged commission of inquiry with comprehensive investigative powers.
Authorities have also offered support packages to affected residents and announced new measures to remove hazardous materials from construction sites and strengthen fire-safety rules.
But these actions have not quelled rising concerns.
‘Draconian Laws’ Used to Target Those Seeking Justice
Türk said he is deeply troubled by reports that Hong Kong’s national security laws—particularly the 2020 National Security Law and the 2024 Safeguarding National Security Ordinance—are being used to target individuals who publicly called for: a transparent, independent inquiry, stronger construction oversight, government accountability, and increased support for victims.
“I urge the authorities to drop these cases against those seeking accountability,” he emphasized.
He reiterated that several provisions and practices under the two laws do not comply with international human rights norms, especially regarding legality, necessity, and proportionality.
UN Warns of ‘Systemic Erosion’ of Rights in Hong Kong
Türk delivered an alarming assessment:
“The cumulative impacts of these laws reflect a systemic erosion in enjoyment of human rights, including the fundamental freedoms of expression, peaceful assembly and association.”
He noted that Hong Kong—once a vibrant center of civil society, open debate, and independent media—has seen its democratic space dramatically shrink.
Recent electoral reforms have reduced directly elected District Council seats to less than 20% of total membership.
Meanwhile, the forced dissolution of major political parties has effectively wiped out organized opposition.
UN’s Final Message: The Door to Civic Space Must Be Reopened
Türk urged the Hong Kong authorities to reverse the shrinking of political space and restore fundamental freedoms.
“There is an opportunity to restore meaningful civic space in Hong Kong, by rolling back measures that restrict political participation and suppress dissent.” (AT Network)
Follow Us at Google News and WA Channel