UK Moves to Restore Extradition Agreement with Hong Kong Despite Ongoing Concerns

The UK government is moving to reinstate its extradition treaty with Hong Kong, suspended in 2020 due to China's national security law. The Home Office applied for changes on July 17, also targeting Chile and Zimbabwe. Critics, including MP Alicia Kearns, argue it legitimizes China’s authoritarian control over Hong Kong. The 2024 Article 23 law expands state powers over treason, espionage, and dissent. Pro-democracy activists fear misuse of extradition for political repression. Supporters claim it targets only non-political crimes. Since 2020, 326 people have been arrested under the law. Hong Kong's autonomy, promised until 2047, is increasingly under threat.