A notice for a government recruitment exam and test on the Hong Kong national security law was seen at the University of British Columbia’s Robson Square campus on Dec. 7, 2024. A human rights group has criticized the university for renting space to the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office for the test, as the the national security law is viewed as a tool used by Beijing to erode freedoms in Hong Kong. The Epoch Times
In a letter sent to UBC on Dec. 22, the Chinese Canadian Concern Group on the Chinese Communist Party’s Human Rights Violations voiced “serious objections” to the university’s decision, noting that the Hong Kong national security law is a “draconian tool of repression that has devastated human rights” in the city and “threatens global democracy.”
“Allowing such activities on Canadian soil poses a serious threat to Canada’s national security and values,” the organization said in the letter reviewed by The Epoch Times.
A notice for a Hong Kong government recruitment exam was posted on the door of a room at the University of British Columbia’s Robson Square campus on Dec. 7, 2024. The exam included a portion on Hong Kong’s national security law, which has been criticized as a tool used by Beijing to erode freedoms in the city. The Epoch Times
Kurt Heinrich, executive director of media relations for UBC, said the university’s decision to rent space to the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office is in line with its space rental policy, which requires compliance with laws and regulations. He noted that, to the university’s knowledge, the event held on Dec. 7 did not violate any laws, regulations, or UBC policies, adding that those concerned about the event should contact the Hong Kong office.
“It is important to note that UBC does not endorse the activities, views, or positions of external groups renting its spaces. The university’s role in such situations is limited to the administration of space rentals and ensuring compliance with established policies,” he said in a Dec. 27 email statement to The Epoch Times.
Suppression of Freedom
The passage of the Hong Kong national security law followed months of pro-democracy protests against Beijing’s growing control over the city. Hong Kong, a former British colony, was promised a high degree of autonomy and civil liberties for 50 years when it was handed back to China in 1997.
The law has also been used by Hong Kong authorities to issue arrest warrants and bounties for pro-democracy activists who have fled abroad, including to Canada.