In an address at a U.S. Independence Day gathering, the leading U.S. diplomat in Hong Kong, Gregory May, criticized the impact of policies enforced by both the Chinese and Hong Kong governments on individual freedoms. He highlighted notable incidents such as the imprisonment of respected activist Jimmy Lai and discussed a concerning trend he termed “transnational regression.”
May, who is soon to take up a post at the U.S. Embassy in Beijing after concluding a three-year stint in Hong Kong, shared his sentiments with journalists, expressing his admiration for the city and its vibrant populace. Despite his appreciation, May conveyed his dissatisfaction, stating, “Hong Kong is an incredible city. However, the policies enacted by the mainland Chinese government and Hong Kong authority have notably diminished freedoms.”
In response to the large-scale anti-government movement that occurred in Hong Kong streets during 2019, Beijing introduced a national security law, citing the necessity for the city’s stability. This law has resulted in charges against Lai and numerous other prominent activists.
The U.S. administration under President Donald Trump has shown significant concern regarding Lal’s predicament, given the severe implications of the national security charges he faces, which carry a potential life sentence. Trump had previously committed to making Lai’s release a priority.
Beyond Lai, May highlighted the broader concern in Washington regarding individuals imprisoned merely for voicing political views peacefully.
Addressing additional international tensions encountered during his tenure, May pointed to “transnational repression” as a troubling issue, marked by attempts from Hong Kong officials to apply the national security law against individuals in the U.S. These accusations extend to overseas activists, with authorities in Hong Kong articulating claims of violations and offering considerable bounties for information leading to arrests.
Earlier in the week, the U.S. Consulate expressed disapproval of the Hong Kong government, accusing it of stifling freedom around the 4th of July festivities. Reports indicated that city education officials cautioned educators and pupils against participating in American diplomatic-organized events commemorating U.S. Independence Day.
May expressed dismay at the developments, describing them as “quite perplexing.”
Responding to media inquiries on the same day, Hong Kong’s education bureau justified its actions, emphasizing the responsibility of schools to act as vigilant gatekeepers and to heighten awareness among teachers and students about national security.