UN rights chief urges Hong Kong to protect civic freedoms after deadly apartment fire

Türk said the tragedy has highlighted the urgent need for open discussion, transparency, and accountability.

The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, has expressed solidarity with victims of last month’s deadly apartment complex fire in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) and called on authorities to ensure civic freedoms amid rising public concern.

Türk said the tragedy has highlighted the urgent need for open discussion, transparency, and accountability.

“At a tragic time like this, the space for discussion and debate on issues of major public interest and concern is more important than ever,” he stated. “The people of Hong Kong understandably want answers and accountability, so that the hundreds of victims are properly compensated and to avoid such a tragedy occurring again.”

Authorities in Hong Kong have initiated several responses:

• an independent review committee,

• criminal and anti-corruption investigations, and

• support packages for affected residents.

They also announced new fire-safety reviews and the removal of hazardous materials from construction sites. However, they have not appointed a full commission of inquiry with investigative powers, a step many residents and civic groups are demanding.

Türk voiced strong concern over reports that Hong Kong’s security laws are being used to target individuals who publicly call for transparency, improved construction oversight, government accountability, and greater support for fire victims.

“I urge the authorities to drop these cases against those seeking accountability,” he said.

Concerns about national security laws

Türk reiterated that provisions within both the 2020 National Security Law (NSL) and the 2024 Safeguarding National Security Ordinance (SNSO) are incompatible with Hong Kong’s obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR).

He highlighted ongoing issues including:

• overly broad and vague offence definitions,

• expanded surveillance and prosecutorial powers,

• extended pre-trial detention,

• denial of bail,

• non-jury trials,

• asset freezes, and

• extraterritorial enforcement.

“The cumulative impacts of these laws reflect a systemic erosion in enjoyment of human rights, including the fundamental freedoms of expression, peaceful assembly and association,” Türk warned. He noted that Hong Kong was once a vibrant regional hub for civil society, open debate and independent media.

Political participation under strain

The High Commissioner also raised concerns about Hong Kong’s recent electoral reforms, which reduced directly elected District Council seats to under 20%, while requiring stringent candidate vetting that has effectively barred opposition voices.

“The compelled dissolution of major political parties has effectively eliminated organised political opposition,” he said. “Political pluralism fosters diversity, equality, and essential checks and balances for democratic accountability.”

Türk said Hong Kong has an opportunity to restore meaningful civic space by reversing measures that restrict political participation and suppress dissent.

“The public’s solidarity with the victims of the fire has shown the depth and resilience of Hong Kong’s civic spirit,” he added, reaffirming the UN Human Rights Office’s commitment to continued dialogue with Hong Kong and Chinese authorities.