Overview

• Chief Justice Andrew Cheung stated that the departure of foreign judges from Hong Kong's Court of Final Appeal is linked to geopolitical tensions and orchestrated harassment.
• Since the introduction of the National Security Law (NSL) in 2020, nine overseas judges have either resigned early or declined to renew their appointments.
• Cheung emphasized that the judiciary remains transparent, fair, and independent despite the challenges posed by the changing political environment.
• Foreign judges have faced criticism and pressure from pro-democracy groups, who argue their presence legitimizes a legal system used to suppress dissent.
• Cheung acknowledged the difficulties in recruiting new overseas judges but expressed confidence in maintaining the judiciary's quality and independence.