South OC Times

As reported by Reuters, U.S. Representatives Young Kim and Jim McGovern have introduced the Hong Kong Sanctions Act to address human rights concerns in Hong Kong. The proposed legislation seeks to hold officials accountable for alleged violations under Beijing's "national security law."

Representative Kim, who chairs the House Foreign Affairs East Asia & Pacific Subcommittee, emphasized the bill's purpose: “Beijing’s ‘national security law’ is a façade used by CCP officials to promote authoritarianism and exert control over Hong Kongers,” she stated. “I refuse to let Beijing silence the voices of freedom-loving people. The Hong Kong Sanctions Act demonstrates the United States’ commitment to uplifting the voices of Hong Kongers and holding officials accountable for human rights violations.”

Congressman McGovern expressed his support for the bill, highlighting its importance in implementing sanctions against those undermining democracy in Hong Kong. “Congress has given the executive branch many, many tools to counter the PRC’s crushing of democracy and human rights in Hong Kong," he said. "It’s time for these authorities to be fully implemented."

Megan Khoo from Hong Kong Watch stressed that targeted sanctions are necessary: “Sanctions would protect Hong Kongers who are targeted by these officials...by making it known that the US will impose consequences for human rights violations.”

Frances Hui from the Committee for Freedom in Hong Kong Foundation also supported this initiative, noting concerns about judicial independence: “Hong Kong’s judiciary has been weaponized by the authorities...We proudly stand alongside Representatives Young Kim and Jim McGovern...to conduct a thorough review of individuals involved in these acts of repression.”

The introduction of this bill reflects ongoing international attention on human rights issues related to Hong Kong.