Since 2021, more than 180,000 Hong Kongers have immigrated to Britain under a special visa program in response to political crackdowns in their homeland. Unlike many other immigrants, Hong Kongers arrive in Britain with the right to vote, giving them a unique opportunity to participate in the democratic process in their adopted country. Many of these immigrants remain concerned about Chinese influence and potential repercussions for their families back in Hong Kong, where political freedoms have been increasingly restricted.
One such immigrant, Richard Wong, who moved to Britain from Hong Kong two years ago, expressed feeling conflicted about participating in the democratic process in his new home. Wong, who once fought for democracy in Hong Kong, now finds himself exercising his right to vote in the UK while his friends back home are unable to do the same. Despite the distance, Wong remains connected to the struggle for democracy in Hong Kong, volunteering for an opposition Labour party candidate in the upcoming UK general election.
With tensions between Britain and China high, some Hong Kong immigrants in the UK are still fearful of Beijing’s reach. At cultural events, attendees often wear masks and avoid cameras, fearing potential harassment of their families in Hong Kong. Despite these concerns, many Hong Kongers in the UK recognize the importance of speaking out and utilizing their right to vote. One individual, Kate, 33, expressed the need to be vocal about China’s control and espionage activities, highlighting the preciousness of the right to vote for Hong Kong immigrants in the UK.
Upon Britain’s exit from Hong Kong, it offered a limited form of British nationality to residents, granting them the right to vote in the UK. This citizenship status has allowed Hong Kong immigrants in Britain to participate in the country’s national election for the first time, marking a significant milestone for many who are passionate about exercising their democratic rights. Carmen Lau, a former Hong Kong district councillor and campaign coordinator for Vote for Hong Kong 2024, emphasized the importance of utilizing the power of votes and encouraging fellow Hong Kongers in the UK to participate in the British election.
The recent wave of Hong Kong immigrants to Britain has been fueled by a desire to escape political crackdowns in their homeland and seek greater freedoms in a new country. With the power to vote in the UK, many Hong Kong immigrants are eager to engage in the democratic process and make their voices heard. Despite the challenges and fears surrounding Chinese influence and potential reprisals, these immigrants are determined to stand up for their rights and speak out against oppression. The ongoing struggle for democracy in Hong Kong continues to resonate with those who have left the city in search of a better future.
