**Leaked emails reveal Beijing’s pressure on Hong Kong to criminalize pro-democracy speech**
**Leaked emails have revealed Beijing’s behind-the-scenes pressure on Hong Kong to criminalize pro-democracy speech, raising fresh concerns about the erosion of freedoms in the semi-autonomous city.**
The emails, obtained by the Financial Times, show that Chinese officials have been pushing Hong Kong to enact a new law that would make it a crime to advocate for or support Hong Kong’s independence or self-determination.
The proposed law, which has been met with widespread opposition in Hong Kong, is seen as a further attempt by Beijing to tighten its grip on the city and suppress dissent.
In one email, a Chinese official tells a Hong Kong official that the new law is “necessary to safeguard national security.” The official also warns that Hong Kong could face “serious consequences” if it does not comply with Beijing’s demands.
The leaked emails come at a time of heightened tensions between Beijing and Hong Kong. In recent months, Beijing has cracked down on pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong and arrested several leading activists.
The new law, if enacted, would further restrict freedom of speech in Hong Kong and make it more difficult for pro-democracy activists to operate.
The leaked emails have sparked outrage among pro-democracy activists in Hong Kong. They say the emails prove that Beijing is intent on destroying Hong Kong’s autonomy and freedoms.
“These emails show that Beijing is determined to silence all dissent in Hong Kong,” said Joshua Wong, a leading pro-democracy activist. “We will not be intimidated. We will continue to fight for our freedoms.”
The Hong Kong government has not yet commented on the leaked emails. However, it has previously said that it is committed to upholding Hong Kong’s autonomy and freedoms.
The leaked emails are a reminder of the growing pressure that Beijing is putting on Hong Kong. They also raise fresh concerns about the future of democracy in the city.
**Here are some additional details about the leaked emails:**
* The emails were sent between Chinese officials and Hong Kong officials in 2019 and 2020.
* The emails show that Chinese officials were directly involved in the drafting of the proposed new law.
* The emails also show that Chinese officials threatened Hong Kong with “serious consequences” if it did not comply with Beijing’s demands.
The leaked emails are a significant development in the ongoing struggle for democracy in Hong Kong. They provide clear evidence of Beijing’s behind-the-scenes pressure on Hong Kong and raise fresh concerns about the future of freedoms in the city..
