Hong Kong and the Quest for Democracy and Freedom under Chinese Rule
One year ago, on June 9, 2019, at least hundreds of thousands of Hongkongers took the streets to protest a proposed extradition bill with China. The bill was eventually withdrawn, but Hong Kong citizens now face Beijing’s so-called “National Security Law”. Will this mean the end of civil liberties and the pro-democratic protests in Hong Kong? How will the Hong Kong citizens react? How should Europe respond?
Welcoming remarks
Christer Ahlström, Director, UI
Panel
Martin Lee is widely referred to as the “father” of Hong Kong democracy. He was one of only two pro-democratic members of the Basic Law Drafting Committee, formulating Hong Kong's mini-constitution. He is the founding chairman of the Democratic Party of Hong Kong and a former member of Hong Kong’s parliament.
Joshua Wong is a student activist who has played a key role in several Hong Kong protests. As a then-18 year old, he gained international attention as the "face" of the 2014 Umbrella Movement. He is the secretary-general of the pro-democratic Demosistō party.
Eliza Lee is a professor of Politics and Public Administration at the University of Hong Kong. Her research focuses on state-society dynamics and the pro-democracy movement in Hong Kong.
Moderator: Tim Rühlig, Research Fellow, UI
Welcome!