Duval Times

U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) has joined a coalition of 76 international parliamentarians and public figures in condemning the passage of Article 23 legislation in Hong Kong. In a joint statement, the group expressed grave concerns about the impact of the new national security laws on the city's autonomy and fundamental freedoms.

The signatories, including prominent figures from Europe, Asia, and North America, highlighted the detrimental effects of the legislation on Hong Kong's rule of law and human rights. They emphasized that the new law not only undermines due process and fair trial rights but also violates Hong Kong's international human rights obligations. The group called for the repeal of the 2020 National Security Law imposed by Beijing and urged the Hong Kong government to ensure that any restrictions on basic rights are legal, legitimate, and proportional.

The coalition of international lawmakers and public figures stressed the importance of upholding the rules-based international order and holding Hong Kong and Beijing officials accountable for their violations. They called on governments to unite against the flagrant breach of the Basic Law of Hong Kong and the Sino-British Joint Declaration.

Among the signatories are representatives from various countries, including the UK, EU, Germany, France, South Korea, Malaysia, the US, and Canada. The list includes influential figures such as former British Governor of Hong Kong, The Lord Patten of Barnes, and former United States Ambassador-at-Large for International Religious Freedom, Ambassador Sam Brownback.

The joint statement serves as a strong message from the international community, emphasizing the need to protect the rights and freedoms of the people of Hong Kong amidst growing concerns over the erosion of autonomy in the region.