national security law

Pro-Beijing lawmakers fast-tracked the legislation, with tough punishment for acts considered "external interference," insurrection and other offenses.

Hong Kong accuses them of violating China's national security law, and is offering a bounty for their capture. The eight, including activist Nathan Law, are wanted for "collusion with foreign forces."

Demands for expanded democracy in the semi-autonomous territory inspired protest movements that were largely ignored by Beijing and crushed by security forces.

Apple Daily was closed, universities were muzzled and prominent activists were either jailed or exiled. The national security law has surely made an impact in Hong Kong in its first year in force.

Britain had offered Hong Kong holders of overseas citizenship a path to residency and citizenship in the U.K. China rejects the move as an infringement on its sovereignty.

The media tycoon was arrested nearly three weeks ago for allegedly violating the terms of his office lease. He was subsequently charged under China's new Hong Kong national security law.

Educators, journalists, political figures and ordinary citizens have been intimidated and even arrested as China moves to stifle protest and civil society with its new law.

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam says she is postponing legislative elections slated for Sept. 6 due to a resurgence in COVID-19 cases. Critics say it will further erode the Chinese territory's autonomy.

Those charged under the new law could be tried on the mainland. Legal experts say the measure ends any remaining autonomy the region enjoys under Chinese rule.