US EditionUN Troubled by Hong Kong Clampdown After Fire
The UN warns that Hong Kong's security law restricts calls for an independent inquiry into the fire that killed around 160 people, raising concerns over human rights and accountability.
- On Dec 9, the United Nations voiced alarm that Hong Kong's national security laws are being used against people seeking a transparent inquiry into the Wang Fung Court complex fire, which killed at least 160.
- Calls for an inquiry prompted authorities to appoint an independent review committee and launch criminal and anti‑corruption investigations, but they have not formed a commission of inquiry.
- Authorities arrested individuals on sedition-related allegations, offered support packages for affected residents, announced hazardous materials removal, and reported six people still listed as missing after the blaze.
- The UN rights chief said several provisions of the 2020 National Security Law and 2024 Safeguarding National Security Ordinance violate international human rights law and urged authorities to drop cases against individuals seeking accountability.
- Amid diminished opposition, the UN said Hong Kong's Dec 7 'patriots only' elections and the dissolution of major political parties weaken political pluralism and checks.
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"I urge the authorities to abandon judicial actions against those who require responsibility," Volker Turk appealed, stating that the law is not in accordance with international law.
After the fire disaster in Hong Kong with at least 160 deaths, Chinese authorities have arrested critics for "incitement". Uno Commissioner Türk is concerned about the human rights situation.
New Strait Times
The Straits TimesUN troubled by Hong Kong clampdown after fire
GENEVA: The United Nations voiced alarm Tuesday at reports that Hong Kong’s “draconian” national security laws were being used against people seeking a transparent inquiry into the Chinese city’s worst fire in decades.
UN News
Hong Kong: UN rights chief voices concern over ‘draconian’ laws, in wake of deadly apartment fire
UN human rights chief Volker Türk has voiced concern over reports that “draconian security laws” in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China are being used to clampdown on people calling for a probe into the deadly fire at an apartment complex last month.
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