Hong Kong activist Joshua Wong told DW that defying “the greatest human rights abuser is essential” ahead of his trial next week. He faces up to five years in prison for his role in pro-democracy protests.
Wong rose to prominence during the pro-democracy demonstrations that were triggered by the introduction of the Fugitive Offenders amendment bill by the Hong Kong government. The now aborted legislation would have potentially meant the extradition of Hong Kong citizens to mainland China, where Wong and other activists felt residents would be subjected to Beijing’s stricter approach to civil liberties. Wong, whose trial starts on Monday, remained defiant, despite the threat of a lengthy jail term. “Prison bars have never stopped me from activism and thinking critically. Even though more than 10,000 Hong Kongers have been arrested since last summer and 2,000 people — including me — were prosecuted, it’s still important for us to stay and fight.”
