Described by friends as adventurous and philosophical, Owen Chow studied nursing and is a practicing Tibetan Buddhist who has always wanted a dog.
At the age of 15, Owen joined his first pro-democracy march. He stepped into public life hoping to serve the underprivileged and build a fairer society. But speaking up has become dangerous in Hong Kong.
In 2020, Beijing imposed a draconian national security law on Hong Kong. As a result, the city has seen political opposition crushed, independent media silenced, and civil society organizations shut down.
Despite the risks, Owen fearlessly stood in unofficial “primaries” aimed at selecting candidates for upcoming elections when he was 23. In response, the authorities accused Owen and 46 others of conspiracy to commit subversion.
In 2021, Owen was arrested, and by 2024 sentenced to more than 12 years in prison. He may not be released until 2032 and has already spent at least three years in solitary confinement.
Owen’s story is one of many in Hong Kong. A city once known for open debate is now gripped by fear. People who once took for granted their right to speak up now no longer feel free to exercise their freedom.
Call on Hong Kong authorities to immediately and unconditionally release Owen