Impact of Sentencing on Democracy in Hong Kong

Hong Kong's High Court has sentenced 45 pro-democracy activists to prison terms ranging from four to ten years, following a national security trial that has significant implications for the city-state's democratic movements. This verdict stems from the 2020 national security law, which established a parallel judicial system that ensures strict convictions for those deemed to threaten national security. The harsh sentences serve not only to remove these activists from public life but also aim to intimidate anyone considering further democratic actions, effectively discouraging future protest. Despite this setback, the spirit of democracy in Hong Kong persists, as activists plan to engage with the diaspora to sustain their cause and morale, signaling that while the immediate movement may be stifled, the desire for democracy remains alive.