Escaping Hong Kong's Reach: The Exiled Activists

When Chloe Cheung escaped Hong Kong with her family as a young schoolgirl, she believed the UK would be a sanctuary for free speech against the Chinese regime. Her life took a terrifying turn when a HK$1 million (about £100,000) bounty was placed on her head for her pro-democracy stance.

"I have to change my route every day and constantly look over my shoulder, checking reflections to ensure I'm not being followed," says the now 20-year-old Chloe. With paranoia ingrained in her daily routine, meeting new people becomes a potential risk.

A Growing Threat: The Price of Dissent

Chloe is not alone; she’s one of 34 activists charged with national security offences by Hong Kong authorities, and at least 13 are suspected to be residing in the UK. Reports from others reveal shocking experiences of being followed, attacked, and even receiving threatening letters sent to their neighbors.

The fear of kidnapping looms heavily—activists worry about being forcibly transported back to Hong Kong or China for retribution.

Demanding Protection and Accountability

Campaigners are urging for stronger protections from the UK government and accountability from China, highlighting the proposed construction of a new super-embassy in London that could serve as a hub for state surveillance. With a decision on the embassy site looming in October, time is running out.

Survival Stories: Activists Share Their Ordeals

Simon Cheng, a former British Consulate worker, has firsthand experience with the severe repercussions of dissent. Stopped during a trip to China in 2019, he endured 15 days of detainment, torture, and forced confessions. "They tried to crush my spirit through sheer brutality,” he recalls. Now, with a bounty on his head, Simon lives in constant fear of being tracked.

Carmen Lau, a former district councillor, had to resign to escape persecution. Upon moving to the UK, she received alarming letters to her neighbors detailing her arrest warrants and the bounty for her capture. "It's terrifying to know that even in a free country, I can still be hunted down," she remarks.

A Climate of Fear: Paranoia in the UK

Activists in exile have shared stories of harassment and intimidation, ranging from online smear campaigns with deepfake videos to public stalking in London. These threats have created a chilling atmosphere, leading many to second-guess their movements and even participation in peaceful gatherings.

"I didn’t anticipate that a country built on freedom would ask me to compromise my rights due to authoritarian aggression," Carmen expresses, feeling uneasy in what should be a sanctuary.

Demands for Action: Activists Call for Change

Chloe seeks enhanced protective measures from authorities, desiring a dedicated hotline for those facing transnational oppression. Her concerns widen as she reflects on the potential consequences of a new embassy in London: "It’s giving a signal that we welcome authoritarianism on our soil."

Finn Lau, another prominent activist, echoes the sentiment, warning that the proposed embassy could lead to a flood of repressive actions against them. "It would embolden the Chinese authorities to continue this campaign of fear," he warns.

The UK Government's Response and Ongoing Threats

Despite their harrowing experiences, those exiled remain hopeful for safety, even as anxiety about potential violative relations between the UK and China grows. With the UK government working towards warmer ties with Beijing, the activists worry about their status as dissidents potentially jeopardizing their safety. The struggle for recognition and protection continues as these brave individuals fight for their right to exist freely—both in their new home and for their fellow citizens back in Hong Kong.