Hong Kong Activist Agnes Chow Refuses to Return from Canada amid Beijing Crackdown

Hong Kong pro-democracy activist Agnes Chow has announced that she will not be returning to Hong Kong from Canada, as she faces bail conditions imposed by the Beijing government. Chow, known for her involvement in the 2019 anti-government protests, was arrested last year under the national security law enacted by Beijing. She served six months in jail and had to regularly report to the police after being released on bail. In an Instagram post, Chow revealed that the pressure she faced caused her mental illnesses, influencing her decision not to return.

While the activist is still considering her next steps, including seeking asylum in Canada, she expressed her reluctance to be forced to visit mainland China again. She stated that continuing under such circumstances would take a toll on her mental and physical well-being. Hong Kong police strongly condemned Chow’s decision, calling it a challenge to the rule of law and urging her to turn back and not take a path of no return. The Hong Kong and Beijing governments have supported the national security law, claiming it has brought stability back to the city.

Chow’s case has gained international attention, with China‘s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin stating that no one is above the law in Hong Kong. The activist’s mainland China trip, which occurred under the condition of having her passport returned, has raised questions, but the police have not provided any response. Meanwhile, Joshua Wong and Nathan Law, fellow pro-democracy activists, have faced their own challenges. Wong is in custody, facing a subversion charge, while Law fled to Britain with a substantial reward offered for his arrest.