Singapore Blocks Entry of Pro-Democracy Activist Nathan Law

URGENT UPDATE: Singapore has just denied entry to Hong Kong pro-democracy activist Nathan Law, citing national interests as the reason for this controversial decision. Law, a prominent figure from the 2014 Umbrella Movement, arrived in Singapore from San Francisco on September 27, 2023, but was quickly referred for questioning upon arrival.

The Ministry of Home Affairs confirmed that Law’s presence was deemed not beneficial to Singapore, stating, “Law’s entry into and presence in the country would not be in Singapore’s national interests.” After a four-hour detention at immigration, he was placed on the earliest flight back to San Francisco on September 28. This swift action raises questions about whether external pressures influenced the decision.

Law, who has been granted asylum in the UK, was reportedly traveling to Singapore for a conference and held a valid visa issued three weeks prior to his trip. Upon his detention, he expressed frustration, stating, “I was denied entry without any explanation.” His experience marks the first time he has faced such a situation, raising concerns about the implications for activists in transit.

Adding to the tension, Hong Kong authorities have issued an arrest warrant for Law, accusing him of incitement to secession and collusion with foreign forces under the controversial National Security Law. They have placed a HK$1 million (approximately $128,526) bounty on each of the eight activists being pursued. The US government has condemned these measures, characterizing them as transnational repression.

Earlier today, Law speculated that his denial of entry could stem from “Chinese pressure or Singapore’s internal political considerations.” The Hong Kong government, however, has dismissed allegations of wrongdoing, asserting that its actions are legitimate and necessary.

This incident comes at a time when many countries, including Germany and Australia, have suspended extradition treaties with Hong Kong due to the national security law. Singapore, which maintains such agreements, now finds itself at a crossroads, balancing diplomatic relations with its own national interests.

Law’s situation is emblematic of the ongoing struggles faced by pro-democracy activists in the region. As he continues to advocate from abroad, this latest incident raises urgent questions about the safety and freedom of dissenting voices in a rapidly changing political landscape.

As developments unfold, observers are urged to monitor potential responses from the Hong Kong and Chinese governments, as well as any implications for international relations in the region. This story is still developing, and further updates are expected shortly.