Ottawa (Rajeev Sharma): The Canadian government has strongly condemned Hong Kong authorities after they issued international arrest warrants for 19 overseas pro-democracy activists, including several Canadian citizens and individuals with close ties to Canada.
In a statement released, Global Affairs Canada criticized the move as a clear case of transnational repression, warning that threats, intimidation, or coercion targeting Canadians will not be tolerated.
“The individuals targeted yesterday under the Beijing-imposed National Security Law in Hong Kong include Canadians and people with close ties to Canada,” the statement read. “This attempt by Hong Kong authorities to conduct transnational repression abroad will not be tolerated.”
The condemnation comes after Hong Kong police on Friday announced cash rewards for information leading to the arrest of 19 pro-democracy activists living abroad. Authorities accuse the group of attempting to overthrow Hong Kong’s and China’s government systems through illegal means, charges that fall under Beijing’s sweeping national security law imposed in 2020.
Arrest Warrants and Bounties
According to the Hong Kong Police, the targeted individuals are allegedly connected to the group Hong Kong Parliament, which the authorities claim aims to promote self-determination and undermine China’s sovereignty. Arrest warrants were issued for activists, including Elmer Yuen, Johnny Fok, Tony Choi, Victor Ho, Keung Ka-wai, and 14 others.
Police claim these individuals organized or took part in a symbolic overseas “election” for the Hong Kong Parliament, a group whose organizing committee was founded in Canada and which reportedly has limited influence.
A Facebook post by the group dated June 30 claimed its online election drew approximately 15,700 valid votes, with participation from across the globe, including voters from Canada, the U.S., the U.K., Australia, Taiwan, and Thailand.
Authorities are offering HK$1 million (approx. US $127,400) for information leading to the arrest of Yuen, Ho, Fok, and Choi, four individuals previously targeted by similar warrants. For the remaining 15 individuals, bounties of HK$200,000 (approx. US $25,480) have been announced.
Canada Warns of Deepening Repression
Ottawa called the latest move a “deeply troubling escalation” of China’s efforts to extend its domestic policies and enforcement mechanisms beyond its borders.
“This represents a dangerous precedent and undermines international norms. Canada stands firm in its support for human rights, free expression, and the democratic aspirations of the people of Hong Kong,” the statement said.
Hong Kong Police stated the investigation remains ongoing and that additional suspects could be named in the future.
The controversy highlights growing concerns over China’s expanding use of national security laws to target dissidents overseas, a trend that democracies like Canada warn threatens the rights and safety of their citizens.
