Hong Kong Human Rights Monitor director's work has never been more relevant

Law Yuk-kai has rarely made the news in recent years, but the veteran human rights activist says his work has never been more relevant.

The director of the Hong Kong Human Rights Monitor found a brief moment in the spotlight in 2011 when he said police use of pepper spray in a scuffle during the July 1 march was "just like in a third-world country".

For the most part, however, rather than grabbing headlines, Law has been quietly toiling for his cause since the body was founded 20 years ago. It is a commitment that has left the 57-year-old with more white hair and extra weight.

But Law refuses to answer questions about the personal toll his work has taken, saying to do so would be a breach of his NGO's regulations. Instead, between sips of iced lemon tea with honey, his thoughts drift between reports produced, bills supported or opposed and struggles, old and new.

"Now that China is taking a very hands-on approach towards Hong Kong and their concept of national security is much wider, I think our role is more important," he said.

"We have to ensure that international standards and the international treaties Hong Kong subscribed to are observed."