At least 160 people were killed in the fire at the court complex in Wang Fung, Tai Po district, which was being renovated.
Mr Türk expressed solidarity with the victims and called for civic space to be guaranteed.
Responses and accountability
“In a tragic moment like this, the space for discussion and debate on issues of major public interest and concern is more important than ever,” he said.
“The people of Hong Kong understandably want answers and accountability, so that the hundreds of victims are properly compensated and such a tragedy does not happen again.”
Mr Türk noted that authorities have appointed an independent review commission and opened criminal and anti-corruption investigations into the fire – but have so far failed to appoint a commission of inquiry with full investigative powers.
They also offered support programs for affected residents and announced measures to remove hazardous materials from construction sites and review fire safety regulations.
Calls for investigation
“I am deeply concerned by reports that draconian homeland security laws are being used against people who have publicly called for a transparent and independent investigation, a review of building oversight, government accountability and support for affected residents, among other things,” he said.
“I urge the authorities to drop charges against those seeking accountability.”
The UN human rights chief stressed that several provisions and practices of the National Security Law of 2020 and the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance of 2024 are not consistent with international human rights law, particularly the principles of legality, necessity and proportionality governing permissible restrictions on rights.
Erosion of human rights
“The cumulative impacts of these laws reflect a systemic erosion of the enjoyment of human rights, including the fundamental freedoms of expression, peaceful assembly and association in what was once a vibrant center of civil society, vigorous public policy debate and independent media in the region,” he said.
The High Commissioner also expressed concerns about electoral changes which have reduced the proportion of directly elected district council seats to less than 20 percent of its total membership.
“The forced dissolution of the main political parties effectively eliminated organized political opposition,” he said.
“Political pluralism promotes diversity and equality, while also providing the essential checks and balances necessary for democratic accountability of public authorities. »
Mr. Türk insisted that “there is an opportunity to restore meaningful civic space in Hong Kong, by reversing these measures that restrict political participation and suppress dissent.”
Originally published in The European Times.
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