Support the fight for democracy and trade union rights in Hong Kong!
The United Kingdom handed over Hong Kong to mainland China in 1997. Despite promises of "one country, two systems" at the handover in 1997, Hong Kong is living in great uncertainty as regards future political development.
The current system is under pressure from the Chinese government. In parliament half the members are appointed by democratic election. The other half, as well as the head of government, is appointed under the strong influence of the government in Beijing. This caused Hong Kong residents to rise in protest in what is termed the Umbrella Revolution. Between 26 September and 15 December 2014 more than 100 000 people took part in peaceful demonstrations in various places in Hong Kong.
The clearest voice for democracy and trade union rights is the free trade union, the Hong Kong Confederation of Trade Unions (HKCTU) and the newly formed Labour Party.
Last year five booksellers who publish and sell literature critical towards China were imprisoned. One of them was the Swedish citizen Gui Minhai, who is still imprisoned in China. The HKCTU and the Labour Party have become involved in this case. Several demonstrations have been held in Hong Kong with more than 8000 participants.
At the same time, the situation has worsened for activists promoting workers’ rights on the Chinese mainland. They are exposed to increasing oppression and leading representatives have been arrested.
As China’s only free trade union, the HKCTU has a key role in the fight for democracy and human rights through extensive trade union work in Hong Kong.
The LO Congress expresses its strong support for the HKCTU in its fight for democracy, human and trade union rights in Hong Kong.