Summary
The League of Social Democrats (LSD), Hong Kong's last active pro-democracy party, has decided to disband due to political pressure. The national security laws passed by China have led to the prosecution and imprisonment of activists, leaving Hong Kong with no legal opposition that holds street protests.
Key Facts
- The League of Social Democrats announced its disbandment due to political pressure.
- The LSD was founded in 2006 and was known for its street protests and advocacy.
- They cited the imprisonment of members and erosion of civil rights as reasons for disbandment.
- National security laws introduced in 2020 allow life sentences for subversion and other offences.
- Under these laws, many activists were jailed, and civil groups and critical media were shut down.
- Article 23, passed in 2024, includes penalties for treason and espionage.
- LSD was noted for aggressive protest tactics, such as throwing items at officials.
- Hong Kong’s former British colony status ended in 1997 when it returned to Chinese rule.
