The Asia Democracy Network (ADN) condemns the violent crackdown of the peaceful pro- democracy protesters. We condemn the suppression of freedom of speech and assembly in Hong Kong and calls on the protection of the basic rights of free speech, assembly, religion and free press guaranteed by the Basic Law, Hong Kong’s local constitution.
ADN urges for the process of free and fair elections to be maintained and guaranteed. With the masses in peaceful protest responding to the decision of a highly controlled election process in Hong Kong, already 40 have been injured due to excessive forced (tear gas) used by law enforcement. It is highly urged that the rights of the peaceful protesters are protected and the principles of democracy upheld.
The freedom of press and speech has been highly compromised in Hong Kong. The usage of social networking services has been strongly restricted in Hong Kong upon the start of the protests. The freedom of speech and press is a fundamental value of human rights that should not be compromised. ADN urges for the restoration of platforms of speech and press.
In bringing justice and democracy to Hong Kong the ADN demands:
Stop in the suppression of free assembly and speech,
Protection of basic human rights of the protestors,
Immediate release of arrested and detained,
Stop to all use of excessive force to suppress assembly and speech,
Universal suffrage should be guaranteed and free and fair elections implemented.
Importantly, we pay tribute to those on the streets peacefully protesting to protect their democratic values and to further democracy in Asia. The Asia Democracy Network aims to advocate and promote democracy in Asia through solidarity and collaboration. In this spirit, ADN supports and stands with those fighting for democracy in Hong Kong.
In Solidarity,
Hyung-sik Shin
ADN Secretary-General