February 25, 1997: Hong Kong - Emily Lau

Emily Lau, a member of the Hong Kong Legislative Council and spokesperson for the pro-democracy group Frontier, provides an urgent firsthand account of Hong Kong's final months before its handover to China. Known as the "Iron Lady of Hong Kong," Lau describes the mounting fears among residents as China systematically dismantles democratic protections and civil liberties. She reveals how Beijing has already begun repealing key laws that were meant to remain in place, creating a climate of uncertainty and exodus among Hong Kong's six million citizens. The interview explores the complex political dynamics as China counts down to July 1997, when the former British colony will officially become part of the People's Republic. Lau discusses the erosion of press freedom, the challenges facing pro-democracy activists, and the international community's largely ineffective response to China's aggressive moves. She candidly addresses the paradox of Hong Kong's vibrant capitalist economy existing alongside an increasingly authoritarian political structure, and shares her concerns about the future of human rights and democratic institutions under Chinese rule.