HK Trade Union Leader Lee Cheuk-yan’s Trial: A Deep Blow to Association Freedom
Veteran Hong Kong labour activist Lee Cheuk-yan and barrister Chow Hang-tung are currently standing trial on a charge of “incitement to subvert state power” under Hong Kong’s national security framework. Both defendants have pleaded not guilty. If convicted, they could face up to 10 years in prison.
Lee is a long-time trade union leader and former General Secretary of the Hong Kong Confederation of Trade Unions (HKCTU), which for decades was Hong Kong’s largest independent labour federations, representing 160,000 members in 61 affiliated unions across different sectors.
Lee and Chow previously served as chair and vice-chair of the now-disbanded Hong Kong Alliance in Support of Patriotic Democratic Movements of China (the Alliance), a civil society organisation that for many years organised Hong Kong’s annual June 4 candlelight vigil.
The vigil, held in Victoria Park, commemorated the victims of the 1989 Tiananmen Square protests and massacre. For more than three decades it was one of the world’s largest public commemorations of the event and brought together civil society groups, including trade unions, students, and community organisations.
Because the case concerns activities carried out by civil society organisations and public commemorations, observers have raised concerns about its implications for freedom of association and peaceful assembly. These rights are recognised under international labour standards and are considered essential for the functioning of independent trade unions.
Recent developments
The trial began in January 2026. On 4 February, the prosecution completed presenting its evidence.
The prosecution relied on video recordings, public speeches, and other materials related to the activities of the Alliance and the June 4 vigil. Most of these materials date back many years before the introduction of the Hong Kong National Security Law in 2020.
The court has questioned the relevance of some of this material during the hearings. Only one witness was called by the prosecution during this stage of the trial.
Next stage of the proceedings
The court has adjourned the case until today (9 March).
At today’s hearing, the court will consider an application from Lee’s legal team arguing that he has “no case to answer.” The court will also hear legal arguments regarding the prosecution’s reliance on the “co-conspirator rule.”
If the court determines that the prosecution has established a case requiring a defence, Lee is expected to testify in court.
Why this case matters for labour movements
The trial has drawn attention because it involves a prominent trade union leader and activities linked to civil society organising. Over the past few years, following the Chinese government’s implementation of the National Security Law in Hong Kong, civil society groups and trade unions in the city have faced severe crackdowns. Developments in the case may therefore have broader implications for freedom of association, civil society participation, and the environment for labour organising in Hong Kong.
International trade unions and labour rights supporters are encouraged to continue monitoring the proceedings.