European Parliament Passes Resolution Expressing Concern Over Article 23 in Hong Kong

(Clearwisdom.net) Members of the European Parliament expressed concern over pending legislation in Hong Kong that could affect fundamental freedoms. While noting that Article 23 was proposed on the pretext of cracking down on subversive activities, the European Parliament has adopted a resolution which calls on the Hong Kong Government to ensure that Article 23 "will not be used to silence opposition, restrict freedom of speech of the press and of publication, freedom of association, of assembly, of procession and of demonstration, the right and freedom to form and join trade unions and to strike, and the right to engage in academic research, literary and artistic creation and other cultural activities, in accordance with Articles 27 and 34 of the Basic Law."

The resolution emphasizes that the future development of relations with China hinges on respect for the full autonomy of Hong Kong. The resolution passed by a margin of 59 to one, with one abstaining.