Hong Kong's press freedom is at a historical low point
As per the Hong Kong Journalists Association (HKJA), press freedom in Hong Kong is at an all-time low. In a report released by HKJA on Tuesday, over 90% of surveyed journalists stated that press freedom in the Special Administrative Region has been severely hampered due to the security law enacted in March.
94% of the respondents voiced concerns over the impact of charging media tycoon Jimmy Lai under the alleged security law, with Beijing being the enactor in 2020. Lai's prosecution is deemed to be causing significant damage to press freedom.
Furthermore, respondents expressed concern over the disappearance of "South China Morning Post" reporter Minnie Chan in Beijing.
The Hong Kong security law came into effect on March 23, 2024, as per Chief Executive John Lee's claims. He asserted that this law was necessary to address the loopholes in the 2020 law imposed by Beijing. The law empowers authorities to take strict measures against any activities perceived as a threat to China's national security, consequently also targeting critics.
Previously, Hong Kong, a Chinese Special Administrative Region, was recognized worldwide for its commitment to free speech. Upon returning to Chinese rule in 1997, Beijing guaranteeing "one country, two systems" for a 50-year period, and securing numerous civil liberties for its residents, solidified Hong Kong's position as a prominent global economic hub.
The Commission has expressed concerns over the impact of charging media tycoon Jimmy Lai under the alleged security law, as this action is deemed to be causing significant damage to press freedom.
The report released by the Hong Kong Journalists Association, which stated that over 90% of surveyed journalists believed that press freedom in Hong Kong has been severely hampered, was presented by the Commission to the international community.
