UN human rights chief Volker Türk has voiced concern over reports that "draconian security laws" in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China are being used to clampdown on people calling for a probe into the deadly fire at an apartment complex last month.
At least 160 people were killed in the blaze at the Wang Fung Court complex, Tai Po district, which was undergoing renovations.
Mr. Türk expressed solidarity with the victims and called for civic space to be ensured.
Answers and accountability
"At a tragic time like this, the space for discussion and debate on issues of major public interest and concern is more important than ever," he said .
"The people of Hong Kong understandably want answers and accountability, so that the hundreds of victims are properly compensated and to avoid such a tragedy occurring again.".
Mr. Türk noted that the authorities appointed an independent review committee and initiated criminal and anti-corruption investigations into the fire - but have so far stopped short of appointing a commission of inquiry with full investigative powers.
They have also offered support packages for affected residents and announced measures to remove hazardous materials from building sites and review fire-safety regulations.
Calls for an inquiry
"I am deeply concerned by reports that the territory's draconian security laws are being applied against individuals who have called publicly for a transparent and independent inquiry, a review of construction oversight, government accountability, and support for affected residents, among other things," he said.
"I urge the authorities to drop these cases against those seeking accountability."
The UN rights chief stressed that several provisions and practices under the 2020 National Security Law and the 2024 Safeguarding National Security Ordinance do not comply with international human rights law, particularly the principles of legality, necessity and proportionality governing permissible restrictions on rights.
Erosion of human rights
"The cumulative impacts of these laws reflect a systemic erosion in enjoyment of human rights, including the fundamental freedoms of expression, peaceful assembly and association in what was once a vibrant hub for civil society, vigorous debate on public policy, and independent media in the region," he said.
The High Commissioner also expressed concerns about electoral changes which have reduced the proportion of directly elected District Council seats to less than 20 per cent of its full membership.
"The compelled dissolution of major political parties has effectively eliminated organized political opposition," he said.
"Political pluralism fosters diversity and equality, while also providing essential checks and balances needed for democratic accountability of the public authorities."
Mr. Türk insisted that "there is an opportunity to restore meaningful civic space in Hong Kong, by rolling back these measures that restrict political participation and suppress dissent."
