People of Hong Kong awarded 2019 John McCain Prize for Leadership in Public Service – an honour that comes at delicate time in US-China relations
- Former lawmaker Emily Lau and activist Figo Chan of Civil Human Rights Front to accept honour on behalf of the city’s residents
- Some see recognition from the Halifax International Security Forum as a direct challenge to Beijing
The people of Hong Kong have won the 2019 John McCain Prize for Leadership in Public Service, providing a boost for the city’s struggle for greater democracy at a delicate time in US-China relations.
Two pro-democracy figures, former lawmaker Emily Lau Wai-hing and activist Figo Chan Ho-wun of Civil Human Rights Front, will accept the honour on Saturday on behalf of all Hongkongers.
President Donald Trump has yet to give a clear indication on whether he will sign the act into law.
Cindy McCain, the wife of Senator McCain who died in 2018, said: “I hope this tribute to those who are struggling for their rights in Hong Kong will encourage more people around the world to raise their voices in support of their cause, especially in my country’s government. They are fighting for something larger than themselves.”
She has also commended the US Congress for passing the act with a nearly unanimous vote and urged the president to sign it into law.