Statement by Jens Galschiot

In connection to the denial of entry into Hong Kong, May 30^th 2009

It's hard for me to understand that I cannot enter Hong Kong. I am a peaceful artist who have been invited by a peaceful organization: "The Hong Kong Alliance".

Why should I not be allowed to participate in the comemmoration of the 20th anniversary of the Tainanmen Massacre - and honor the victims who paid with their life for their faith in democracy?

I feel that both I and the Hong Kong government must look like fools to the whole world. I had written many letters and applied for a preliminary permission to enter Hong Kong. My application has been discussed for months and I have recieved two letters from the immigration authorities, saying that I, like other Danish citizens, can freely travel into Hong Kong without needing a visa, but the final judgement can only be done at the airport.

It is therefore very sad for the Hong Kong democracy, that they have detained me for 6 hours and now are sending me back. It is sad for the democracy, freedom of speech and human rights in Hong Kong.

I will encourage every citizen of Hong Kong to participate in the 4th June memorial to honor the victims of the Tiananmen Massacre and to show support for democracy in Hong Kong.

Sincerely,

Jens Galschiot