The Canadian government has issued a strong condemnation of Hong Kong's decision to issue international bounties and arrest warrants for 19 pro-democracy activists living around the world. The announcement, made by Minister of Foreign Affairs Anita Anand and Minister of Public Safety Gary Anandasangaree on July 26, 2025, marks a significant escalation in the use of transnational repression by the People's Republic of China.
<font size="3">The targeted individuals, who include Canadians and people with close ties to Canada, were issued threats, intimidation, or coercion by Hong Kong authorities under the Beijing-imposed National Security Law. The law, which has been widely criticized for violating Hong Kong's international human rights obligations, has been repeatedly called upon by Canada to be repealed.</font>
<font size="3">The Canadian government is standing in solidarity with its international partners whose citizens and residents have also been affected by this act of transnational repression. This move reflects Canada's commitment to upholding democratic values and protecting the sovereignty and security of its people.</font>
<font size="3">Rapid Response Mechanism Canada has detected that the bounties are being amplified in an inauthentic and coordinated way, through an online network of accounts targeting Chinese-speaking communities. The actions taken by Hong Kong threaten the security of Canadians and undermine trust in international relations.</font>
In response to concerns about foreign interference, the Canadian government is urging citizens who feel they are being targeted to contact the Royal Canadian Mounted Police's National Security Information Network at 1-800-420-5805 or through a secure web form on the RCMP website.
Canada has previously called upon Hong Kong to withdraw all related warrants and bounties, and to repeal the National Security Law. The Canadian government reiterates its support for pro-democracy activists worldwide and stands firm in its commitment to upholding human rights and democratic values.
<font size="3">The significance of this development lies in its far-reaching implications for global relations, international security, and human rights. As a key player in the international community, Canada's stance on this matter sets an important precedent for other countries to follow.</font>