A Hong Kong court has dismissed all appeals in the city’s largest national security case, upholding the convictions of dozens of pro-democracy activists charged under a Beijing-imposed law. The ruling marks another significant chapter in the transformation of Hong Kong’s political landscape following years of unrest and sweeping legal changes.

The case involved 47 pro-democracy advocates who were charged in 2021 with conspiracy to commit subversion under the National Security Law imposed by Beijing in 2020. The law was introduced after months of anti-government protests that shook the city in 2019.

On February 23, 2026, the court rejected appeals filed by the defendants, effectively confirming earlier sentences that ranged from four to ten years in prison for 45 of the activists.

Background to the National Security Law

The National Security Law was introduced by Beijing in June 2020. Chinese authorities said the law was necessary to restore order after the 2019 protests, which at times turned violent and caused widespread disruption.

The law criminalises acts of secession, subversion, terrorism, and collusion with foreign forces. It grants broad powers to authorities and allows certain cases to be handled under mainland Chinese jurisdiction.

Supporters of the law argue that it has restored stability to Hong Kong and prevented further unrest. Critics, however, say it has significantly curtailed political freedoms and civil liberties in the city.

The Unofficial Primary Election

The 47 activists were accused of organising and participating in an unofficial primary election in July 2020. The aim of the primary was to select pro-democracy candidates for the upcoming Legislative Council elections.

Prosecutors argued that the primary was part of a coordinated plan to gain a legislative majority and use it to veto government budgets, thereby forcing the resignation of the Chief Executive. Authorities claimed this amounted to a plan to subvert state power.

The defence maintained that organising a primary election was a legitimate political activity and part of democratic participation.

Mass Arrests and Charges

In early 2021, police arrested dozens of pro-democracy figures in dawn raids. The 47 charged individuals included former lawmakers, activists, academics, and community leaders.

The scale of the arrests marked one of the most significant crackdowns on political opposition in Hong Kong’s recent history. Many of those arrested were prominent figures who had played leading roles in the 2019 protest movement.

The trial attracted international attention due to its size and political implications.

Sentencing and International Reaction

In 2024, 45 of the defendants were sentenced to prison terms ranging from four years to ten years. Two were acquitted. The sentences were among the harshest handed down under the National Security Law.

Foreign governments and human rights organisations criticised the verdicts, arguing that they undermined freedom of expression and political participation.

Officials in Beijing and Hong Kong defended the judgments, stating that the rule of law was being upheld and that national security must take priority.

The Appeal Process

Following the 2024 sentencing, several defendants filed appeals challenging their convictions and sentences. The appeals focused on legal interpretations of subversion and the right to political participation.

On February 23, 2026, the Hong Kong court dismissed all appeals related to the case. The court ruled that the original convictions were legally sound and that the evidence supported the findings of conspiracy to commit subversion.

The ruling effectively closes one of the most high-profile legal battles under the National Security Law.

Impact on Hong Kong’s Political Landscape

The mass prosecution is widely seen as a turning point for Hong Kong’s pro-democracy movement. Before 2020, the city had a vibrant political scene with active civil society groups, independent media, and competitive elections.

Since the introduction of the National Security Law, many opposition politicians have been disqualified, arrested, or have left the city. Civil society organisations have dissolved, and some independent media outlets have shut down.

Observers say the movement that reached its peak during the massive protests of 2019 has been significantly weakened.

Beijing’s Position

Chinese authorities have consistently maintained that the National Security Law is necessary to safeguard sovereignty and stability. Officials argue that no country would tolerate actions aimed at undermining its constitutional order.

Beijing has also stated that the law only targets a small minority who threaten national security, while ordinary citizens continue to enjoy rights and freedoms.

The central government views the 2019 protests as a serious challenge to national unity and security.

Human Rights Concerns

Human rights organisations have expressed concern about the broad definitions contained in the National Security Law. Critics argue that terms like subversion and collusion are open to interpretation.

They also raise concerns about extended pre-trial detention periods and limited bail provisions in national security cases.

Supporters of the law counter that it is comparable to national security legislation in other countries and that judicial procedures are being followed.

Broader International Implications

The case has implications beyond Hong Kong. Several Western governments have adjusted their policies toward the city following the introduction of the National Security Law.

Some countries have offered immigration pathways to Hong Kong residents, citing concerns about political freedoms.

The developments have also affected Hong Kong’s reputation as an international financial centre, though authorities maintain that business confidence remains strong.

The Human Dimension

For the families of those convicted, the ruling represents a continuation of years of legal uncertainty. Many of the activists have been in custody since their arrests in 2021.

Supporters of the activists argue that their actions were part of normal democratic engagement. Others believe that stability and economic security are more important for Hong Kong’s future.

The case reflects deep divisions within society over governance, identity, and political direction.

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