Hong Kong Pro-Democracy Activist Nathan Law Barred from Entering Singapore
Nathan Law Denied Entry to Singapore Amid Political Tensions
BEIJING — Prominent Hong Kong activist Nathan Law, currently residing in London, was recently denied entry to Singapore under circumstances he believes are politically motivated. Law, who fled Hong Kong in 2020, was apprehended at Singapore’s airport and informed four hours later that his entry permission had been revoked. Following this incident, he was returned to San Francisco the next day.
Background on Nathan Law and His Activism
Nathan Law is one of several activists who have left Hong Kong after the implementation of the National Security Law in 2020, which has led to the imprisonment of many dissenting voices. Law intended to participate in a closed-door event in Singapore for which he had obtained a visa, departing from San Francisco. However, no explanation for the entry denial was provided to him.
Political Implications of the Entry Denial
In a statement, Law expressed his belief that the refusal was politically charged. He voiced uncertainty regarding the potential involvement of external forces, particularly the People’s Republic of China (PRC). Law indicated he was taken to a facility designated for individuals facing deportation but chose not to make further comments on the situation.
Singapore’s Official Response
The Singapore government confirmed the denial of entry, highlighting that holding a visa does not guarantee automatic entry, as all visa holders are subject to border checks. The Ministry of Home Affairs noted the warrant issued by Hong Kong police for Law’s arrest under the National Security Law and asserted that his presence would not align with Singapore’s national interests.
Legal Perspectives on the Situation
Eugene Tan, an associate professor of law at Singapore Management University, commented on the incident, stating that it is not unexpected for Singapore to avoid being a battleground for foreign political conflicts. He clarified that Singapore has an extradition agreement with Hong Kong, but it may not extend to national security violations.
Concerns Over Extradition and National Security Laws
In 2023, Hong Kong authorities issued warrants for Law and other activists living abroad, offering rewards for information regarding their whereabouts. Law faces accusations of collaborating with foreign entities and inciting secession through various communications and public statements.
- Colluding with foreign parties
- Inciting secession from China
- Engaging with foreign officials
Hong Kong Government’s Stance on Law’s Actions
In a recent briefing, Hong Kong’s leader, John Lee, refrained from confirming whether he sought Singapore’s assistance in extraditing Law. He emphasized that nations should not harbor individuals classified as criminals and affirmed their commitment to pursuing those who evade justice. The Hong Kong government has called upon Law to return and face legal repercussions for his alleged violations of national security.
The Context of Hong Kong’s Current Political Climate
Hong Kong, while maintaining its own legal framework as a Chinese territory, has faced increased restrictions since the National Security Law was enforced in 2020. Law gained recognition as a student leader during the 2014 pro-democracy Umbrella Revolution, alongside figures like Joshua Wong, who is currently imprisoned in Hong Kong. Although Law won a legislative seat in 2016, he was subsequently disqualified due to the manner in which he administered his oath of allegiance to China.
This incident reinforces ongoing concerns regarding political freedoms and the treatment of activists in Hong Kong and beyond, as the global community watches closely.
The post Hong Kong Pro-Democracy Activist Nathan Law Barred from Entering Singapore appeared first on CDN3 - el-balad.com.
