Joshua Wong, one of Hong Kong’s most prominent pro-democracy activists, pleaded guilty on Wednesday to conspiring to seek foreign sanctions against Hong Kong and China. This national security charge carries a maximum life sentence.
Background on the Case
Wong, 29, is accused of urging foreign powers to impose sanctions, blockades, and other hostile measures against China. Prosecutors allege that he collaborated with exiled activist Nathan Law to lobby foreign politicians for sanctions against Hong Kong and China. The court heard that Wong had traveled to foreign countries and met with politicians to advocate for these measures.
The prosecution stated that Wong continued to call for sanctions even after the implementation of the national security law, posting about his meetings on social media.
Wong's Imprisonment
Wong has been imprisoned since November 2020, spending nearly six years in detention. He was originally set to be released in January 2027. In 2022, he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit subversion related to an unofficial primary election and was sentenced to four years and eight months in prison in November 2024.
As he entered the dock on Wednesday, Wong waved at supporters, dressed in a blue shirt and black-rimmed glasses. He stood with his arms behind his back as he pleaded guilty to the charges. The offence is punishable by three to ten years in prison, or up to life imprisonment if deemed “of a grave nature.” Pleading guilty could lead to a reduced sentence.
Public Reaction
Outside Hong Kong’s high court, supporters queued overnight to attend the hearing. One supporter criticized the proceedings, stating, “Under a compromised judicial system with zero space for a fair trial, Wong’s plea is a forced reality. This is not justice, but Beijing’s absolute eradication of Hong Kong’s dissident voices.”
