
Hong Kong Proposes Striking Changes to Inmate Visitation Rules Citing National Security
2025-07-03
Author: Wai
In a controversial move, Hong Kong's government is pushing to tighten prison visitation regulations, which could severely limit access for religious leaders and lawyers under the guise of national security.
On Thursday, officials unveiled proposals intended to amend existing prison rules, aiming to enhance national security measures and improve the management of correctional facilities. These changes were discussed in a document submitted to the Legislative Council's security panel.
The proposed amendments would empower the Correctional Services Department (CSD) to restrict or completely ban visits to inmates if deemed necessary for national security. The government argues that some individuals have previously exploited visitations under the pretense of 'humanitarian relief' to influence detainees or incite dissent against authorities.
The new regulations would specifically allow the CSD to deny visits that do not align with legitimate rehabilitation purposes, raising concerns about potential abuses of power.
Currently, legal and religious representatives have more lenient visitation rights, with chaplains permitted to visit prisoners 'at all reasonable times.' However, the proposed rules would grant authorities the discretion to restrict visits from certain religious figures or lawyers if national security is at risk.
Additionally, the government suggested that the CSD might seek magistrate warrants to prevent inmates from communicating with specific legal representatives or affiliated individuals, a move that could hinder legal defense strategies.
These recommendations follow a notable incident involving pro-democracy activist Owen Chow, whose interactions with his lawyer raised concerns about unauthorized material being smuggled out of prison. Despite losing an appeal, Chow's legal team continues to seek justice in higher courts.
As for remanded prisoners—those awaiting trial—the government is also considering eliminating provisions that allow them to wear their own clothes and eat outside food, arguing it disrupts prison discipline. Reports indicate that nearly 4,000 of Hong Kong's incarcerated population of about 9,900 are on remand.
Other proposals include enhancing the authority of prison officers to regulate communications, screen incoming and outgoing letters, and enforce measures such as solitary confinement.
The Hong Kong government aims to pass these amendments swiftly, employing negative vetting procedures that would allow the changes to take effect before full legislative scrutiny.
This proposal is set to be a key topic of discussion during the upcoming meeting of the Legislative Council’s security panel.