Australia Grants Asylum to Ex-Hong Kong Lawmaker Ted Hui Amid Rights Concerns

 

Exiled former Hong Kong lawmaker Ted Hui has welcomed Australia’s decision to grant him asylum, calling it clear recognition of Hong Kong’s human rights violations since the suppression of pro-democracy protests in 2019. Hui fled Hong Kong more than four years ago and has been accused by the territory’s authorities of crimes linked to the protests, with a bounty placed on him. Speaking after his asylum was approved on Friday, Hui said Australia’s decision confirmed that democracy and freedoms had been eroded in Hong Kong, and that asylum was justified for those targeted for political reasons. He also expressed gratitude to Australia, where he now lives with his family and works as a lawyer in South Australia. Data from Australian immigration records reviewed by Reuters showed that since January 2021, no other Hong Kong asylum claims had been approved, with five rejected in 2023. Hui’s approval is therefore seen as a major exception and symbol of recognition. Since 2021, over 123 Hong Kong citizens have lodged asylum claims in Australia, though many more have chosen skilled visas offered under a special program that allows Hong Kong residents to remain permanently. The asylum grant highlights growing global concern over Beijing’s influence in Hong Kong.

Hui used the occasion to call for support for pro-democracy businessman Jimmy Lai, currently on trial in Hong Kong under national security laws. Lai, 77, has faced health issues during his hearings but remains a powerful symbol of resistance. Hui described Lai as a noble figure who could have left the city but chose to stay and fight, comparing him to a captain determined to “sink with the ship” in defense of democratic values. He stressed that Lai deserves international help during what he called his “deep plight.” The case has also raised security concerns in Australia. Hui revealed that anonymous letters were circulated in South Australia offering rewards for information about him and his family. The Australian Federal Police are investigating the matter and regularly contact him to ensure his safety. Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong also raised the issue directly with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi last month. The Hong Kong government responded by saying it opposed “the harbouring of criminals in any form by any country.” For Hui, however, the asylum decision is both personal relief and political recognition. He said it reflects Australia’s willingness to stand by democratic principles and offer protection to those who continue to be persecuted.

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