Hong Kong’s High Court sentenced 45 pro-democracy activists to up to 10 years in prison under a Beijing-imposed security law, sparking criticism from the U.S., which called the trial “politically motivated.” Authorities insist the law was needed to restore order.

Hong Kong’s High Court on Tuesday sentenced 45 pro-democracy activists to prison terms of up to 10 years following a landmark national security trial, which has dealt a significant blow to the city’s once vibrant democracy movement and attracted criticism from the U.S. and other nations.  

In 2021, a total of 47 pro-democracy activists were arrested and charged with conspiracy to commit subversion under a national security law imposed by Beijing. They faced potential life sentences. Benny Tai, a former legal scholar identified as one of the “organisers” of the group, received a 10-year jail term, the longest handed down under the 2020 law so far.  

Some Western governments have criticised the proceedings, with the U.S. calling them “politically motivated” and urging the release of the activists, who it claims were legally and peacefully engaged in political activities.

However, the Chinese and Hong Kong authorities argue the national security legislation was necessary to restore order following the widespread pro-democracy protests in 2019, and insist the activists have been dealt with in accordance with local laws.

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