But seeking accountability and justice is more challenging in a repressive police state: Benedict Rogers.

By Benedict Rogers for The Spectator

For the original article this summary is based on, see the publisher’s website here.

In Brief by Probe International

Last week’s apartment fire tragedy in Hong Kong is not just a human loss but also a political test for Beijing and its local regime, which has focused on suppressing dissent rather than ensuring the safety and welfare of residents, argues human rights activist and journalist Benedict Rogers.

The lack of transparency and accountability in the aftermath of the fire echoes past grievances. As public anger simmers beneath the surface in a city where free speech and peaceful protest have been criminalized, Rogers asks: “in what ways might Hong Kongers seek accountability?”

Tragedies and inadequate fire safety measures are not exclusive to authoritarian regimes, continues Rogers, pointing to London, England’s Grenfell Tower horror as an example. However, he writes, “in an open, democratic society the truth can be sought, those responsible can be held accountable, and justice can be found.” Accountability in a repressive police state is significantly more “elusive,” he notes.