China controls Hong Kong: the new immigration law allows it to prevent the entry and exit of people

Hong Kong approved a new immigration law on Wednesday that includes powers to prevent people from entering or leaving the city, Which raises concerns about that Similar to China, “exit ban” It can be applied in the former British colony.

Activists, lawyers and some businessmen warned of various provisions in the bill, including that The city’s head of immigration is allowed to prevent people from boarding planes to and from the city.

There is no court order required and cannot be appealed. The Hong Kong Bar Association (HKBA) warned that the wording of the bill gave “Seemingly unrestricted authority” of the immigration director.

“When they have this power, the ultimate power, it doesn’t know who they’re going to use.”The lawyer told reporters Chow Hang TongOf the Hong Kong Pro-Democracy Alliance.

The Hong Kong government argues that immigration law was necessary Address the backlog of non-refoulement claims and screening illegal immigrants Before they leave for the city.

It will only apply to flights to Hong Kong.The security bureau said.

However, the text does not limit the powers of arrivals or migrants, and legal experts say it can be applied against it Anyone leaving or arriving in Hong Kong.

The immigration bill was received on Wednesday 39 votes in favor and two against. His critics say that, too Facilitate the detention and deportation of refugees.

The so-called “exit ban” is often used in mainland China against activists who challenge the authorities.

Under the leadership of Beijing, it became the Hong Kong government Most authoritarian since the mass protests of 2019.

(With information from Agence France-Presse)

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