Global Backlash as Hong Kong Jails 45 Pro-Democracy Activists

The sentencing of 45 pro-democracy activists in Hong Kong has sparked international outrage, with sentences ranging from four to ten years under the national security law. The activists were involved in an unofficial primary election in 2020, which authorities claim was part of a plan to disrupt the legislative process. Western governments and human rights organizations have condemned the sentences as politically motivated and a violation of civil liberties. Beijing has dismissed the criticism, asserting the need to safeguard national security.