The Australian Bar Association stands with legal associations around the world in continuing to press for the urgent release of 15 pro-democracy leaders arrested in Hong Kong in April.
‘Almost ten days have passed since the arrests on 18 April. The Association continues to hold grave concerns about this apparent violation of the right to freedom of expression, of assembly and peaceful protest, which are protected under Hong Kong law,’ ABA President, Matthew Howard SC, said today.
‘Governments and legal systems must promote respect for the Rule of Law and human rights, especially during times of great uncertainty or crisis like COVID-19. Where concerns arise that these have been violated, we have a responsibility to speak out’.
The Association lends its support to recent calls by the International Bar Association and Law Council of Australia and will seek to work with its international colleagues to press these matters.
