Hong Kong court jails 45 pro-democracy activists

In Hong Kong, 45 pro-democracy activists have been sentenced to prison terms ranging from 50 months to 10 years for participating in an unofficial primary election. The sentencing follows the introduction of a controversial national security law by China in the summer of 2020, after large democracy protests in 2019. The law criminalizes activities that aim to separate Hong Kong from China or undermine the Chinese government. In a trial lasting 118 days, 14 activists were found guilty earlier this year, with 31 others confessing and two being acquitted. The United States has criticized the trial as politically motivated and has called for the activists’ release. Hundreds gathered outside the courthouse to witness the sentencing, and police presence was significantly increased.