14 Jun 2019 | 06:09 AM UTC
Hong Kong: Further demonstrations planned June 16-17 /update 14
Activists plan to hold additional demonstrations in Hong Kong to oppose extradition bill on June 16-17; heightened security measures and associated disruptions expected
Event
The Civil Human Rights Front (CHRF) is calling for additional protests in Hong Kong on Sunday, June 16, and Monday, June 17, to condemn recent violence against demonstrators and for the withdrawal of a controversial extradition bill. According to protest organizers, groups have applied to march from Victoria Park to the government headquarters on Sunday, starting at 14:30 (local time). Monday’s rally is scheduled to take place outside of the Legislative Council Complex.
Significantly heightened security measures are expected around all protest sites and in Admiralty. Road and MRT station closures, commercial and government service disruptions, and crowded conditions are likely if the demonstrations take place. Violent clashes broke out between protesters and security forces on Wednesday, June 12, and police officers have used tear gas, pepper spray, and water cannons to disperse crowds. Similar clashes cannot be ruled out during future demonstrations.
Context
Hundreds of people gathered peacefully on Thursday, June 13, following Wednesday's rally where tens of thousands of people participated in protests in Admiralty. The protest turned violent in the afternoon as police clashed with protesters, using tear gas, water cannons, rubber bullets, and batons. At least 72 protesters were wounded in Wednesday's confrontations. Mass protests on Sunday, June 9, were largely peaceful and attended by up to 1.03 million people.
The recent demonstrations were in opposition to a controversial extradition bill that would allow Hong Kong to extradite fugitives wanted in mainland China, along with Macau and Taiwan. Opponents claim the law would erode freedoms guaranteed by China in 1997 and may be used to silence dissent on Chinese policies.
Advice
Individuals in Hong Kong are advised to monitor the situation, adhere to instructions issued by local authorities, refrain from discussing political subjects in public or on social media, avoid all public gatherings due to the risk of violence and arrest, and anticipate transportation disruptions and a heightened security presence.
