Hong Kong Watch Briefing on Human Rights Developments: August 2025

This briefing describes developments in Hong Kong in August 2025 focusing on the rapid deterioration of human rights in the city following the imposition of the National Security Law and the passage of Safeguarding National Security Ordinance.

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Executive Summary

The National Security Law continued to cast a shadow over Hong Kong in August, as the landmark trial of media tycoon Jimmy Lai entered its final stage amid concerns for his deteriorating health.

In an unprecedented move, authorities prosecuted the father of exiled activist Anna Kwok, marking the first case of a family member of a wanted activist being targeted under the domestic national security law.

Meanwhile, the government vowed to deepen "patriotic education" in schools and accelerated the dismantling of civil society, with multiple NGOs disbanding and press freedom further curtailed through visa denials.

The judiciary continues to be used for repression, with activist Joshua Wong’s case transferred to the High Court, and high-profile trials – including those of Tiananmen vigil organizers – set to proceed.

Transnational repression escalated as the government cancelled passports of 12 overseas activists, debarred solicitor Kevin Yam from practice, and summoned UK and Australian diplomats after both countries granted asylum to Ted Hui and Tony Chung.

In a disturbing development, former Chief Executive Leung Chun-ying was filmed harassing Falun Gong practitioners in Finland, underscoring the escalation of transnational repression by the Hong Kong and Chinese authorities.