BWI on the sentencing of the “Hong Kong 45”

The Building and Wood Workers' International (BWI) expresses its strongest condemnation of the Hong Kong court's sentencing of 45 pro-democracy activists, including activists Benny Tai and Joshua Wong, to terms ranging from four to ten years in what is clearly a politically motivated trial under the draconian National Security Law (NSL). This trial represents a chilling assault on democratic principles, human rights, and the freedoms of association and expression.

The case of the “Hong Kong 47” exemplifies the alarming erosion of civil liberties in Hong Kong. These individuals, among the most courageous faces of the pro-democracy movement, are being punished for organising an election primary—an act that symbolises the essence of participatory democracy. Their efforts were not subversive, as alleged, but were instead a legitimate and peaceful attempt to advocate for representation and accountability in governance. 

The NSL has become a blunt instrument of repression, forced into effect by the mainland Communist Party of China and is wielded by its puppet, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), to silence dissent and criminalise the aspirations of those who dare to dream of democracy. This verdict is not only a cruel betrayal of Hong Kong’s people but also a stark warning to freedom advocates worldwide.

BWI stands in firm solidarity with the “Hong Kong 47” and calls on the international community to intensify its condemnation of this egregious miscarriage of justice. We demand the immediate release of these activists and an end to the systematic weaponisation of the NSL against democracy defenders. The global community must hold the Hong Kong and Chinese governments accountable for their flagrant violations of human rights.

BWI asserts that the imprisonment of these leaders will not extinguish the fire of democracy in Hong Kong. On the contrary, it will galvanise workers, trade unions, and civil society worldwide to redouble their efforts in the fight for freedom, justice, and human dignity. BWI reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the working people of Hong Kong in their courageous struggle for a just and democratic future.