Hong Kong Activist Nathan Law Denied Entry to Singapore, Raising Concerns Over City-State's Handling of Pro-Democracy Figures
Nathan Law, a prominent Hong Kong pro-democracy activist, was denied entry to Singapore on Saturday night, sparking concerns over the city-state's handling of individuals wanted by Hong Kong authorities under the national security law. According to Law, he was detained at the airport for four hours before being deported back to the US.
Law, who fled Hong Kong in 2020 and lives in exile in the UK, had been planning to attend a conference in Singapore when he was denied entry. "I presume it's because of my political activities," Law said in an interview with NPR Politics. "It's not just about me; it's about the message that Singapore is sending out."
The incident has raised questions about Singapore's stance on human rights and its willingness to accommodate individuals wanted by Hong Kong authorities under the national security law. According to Al Jazeera, Law had a valid visa for entry into Singapore, but was still denied entry.
Singapore's handling of pro-democracy figures has been a subject of controversy in recent years. In 2020, the city-state barred several Hong Kong activists from attending a conference, citing concerns over their "political activities." The incident has sparked concerns among human rights groups and activists that Singapore is becoming increasingly authoritarian.
The national security law imposed by China on Hong Kong in June 2020 has been widely criticized for its restrictive provisions and lack of due process. According to Amnesty International, the law has been used to silence dissenting voices and target pro-democracy activists.
Law's denial of entry into Singapore has sparked a strong reaction from human rights groups and activists. "This is a clear indication that Singapore is not willing to accommodate individuals who are critical of the Chinese government," said a spokesperson for Amnesty International. "It's a worrying trend that suggests Singapore is becoming increasingly authoritarian."
The incident has also raised questions about the role of Singapore in China's crackdown on pro-democracy movements. According to experts, Singapore's close economic ties with China have led to increased pressure on the city-state to accommodate Beijing's interests.
As for Law, he remains committed to his activism despite the setback. "I will continue to speak out against human rights abuses and advocate for democracy in Hong Kong," he said. "This incident has only strengthened my resolve."
The current status of the situation is unclear, but it is likely that the incident will spark further debate over Singapore's handling of pro-democracy figures and its relationship with China.
Sources:
NPR Politics: Overseas Hong Kong Pro-Democracy Activist Nathan Law Denied Entry to Singapore
Al Jazeera: Singapore Bars Hong Kong Activist Nathan Law at Airport
This story was compiled from reports by NPR Politics and Al Jazeera.
