The EPP Group supports the continuing fight of Hong Kong citizens for a transparent and fair electoral system and the respect of human rights.
“Protesters violently silenced in the streets of Hong Kong, journalists forced into self-censorship and the lack of political rights remind us of our own European history that we hope we never have to relive. This is why the EPP Group stands firmly behind the right of Hong Kong citizens for a transparent and fair electoral system and an independent investigation of the use of police force,” said Michaela Šojdrová MEP who spoke on behalf of the EPP Group during the debate in plenary.
Hong Kong is the scene of mass protests which broke out months ago, sparked by the proposal of a controversial legislative bill that would permit the extradition of Hong Kong citizens to mainland China and there is a concern that their human rights might be abused.
In July, the European Parliament adopted a Resolution which, among other things, stipulates that mainland China’s judiciary lacks independence from the government and the Chinese Communist Party and is characterised by arbitrary detention, torture and other ill-treatment, serious violations of the right to a fair trial, enforced disappearances and various systems of incommunicado detention without trial.
“The ‘one country, two systems’ principle declared by China for Hong Kong is failing in practice if millions are expressing their frustration on the streets. What is happening today in Hong Kong could happen tomorrow in other regions. Democracy cannot be written on paper only. Real rule of law is based on the freedom of expression, press and religion. This is what we are committed to in our dialogue with Hong Kong and China,” added Michaela Šojdrová.
