Club Lunch: The Inside Story of Edward Snowden in Hong Kong

In May 2013, Edward Snowden travelled to Hong Kong and disclosed mass electronic surveillance practices by the National Security Agency, revelations that exposed the abuse of power by the U.S. government and prompted much discussion around the world about citizens’ privacy versus national security. A manhunt ensued for the former Central Intelligence Agency employee who hid amongst various refugee families in Hong Kong then fled to Russia, where he currently resides.

The speaker discussed the challenges faced by Snowden, his legal team and the asylum seekers that sheltered the whistleblower in Hong Kong. Tibbo shared an update on the current status of Snowden. He also discussed the importance of whistleblowers in today’s society.

Robert Tibbo is a Canadian barrister-at-law based in Hong Kong. He is a legal expert on human rights issues, refugee and asylum law, among other areas. One of Tibbo’s most notable cases to date is his role as counsel to Snowden; the lawyer continues to advise the N.S.A. whistleblower.