Hong Kong national security law has ‘chilling effect’ on freedoms, says UN human rights chief

The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet has warned that Hong Kong’s national security law is having a “chilling effect” on basic freedoms. Speaking at a news conference on December 9, 2020, Bachelet voiced concern about the “rapidly shrinking civil and democratic space” in Hong Kong. Bachelet also reportedly urged authorities to uphold the right to due process and fair trials in the city. Her remarks came after Hong Kong police arrested eight opposition activists on December 8 in connection with an anti-government protest in July.

Video source: Reuters