16 Aug 2019 | 03:04 AM UTC
Hong Kong: Further demonstrations planned August 16-18 /update 60
Protests are scheduled to take place in downtown Hong Kong on August 16-18; heightened security presence and transportation disruptions expected
Event
Additional protests are scheduled to be held in downtown Hong Kong from Friday, August 16, through Sunday, August 18. On Friday, demonstrators are planning to gather outside of the Revenue Tower. Teachers are organizing a march on Saturday, August 17, starting at 11:00 (local time) at Chater Garden. The Civil Human Rights Front (CHRF) is also planning a mass demonstration on Sunday. Police officials have denied the group permission to hold a march but will allow an assembly at Victoria Park from 10:00-23:00. CHRF is appealing the decision and protesters may march despite the police ban. Over a million people participated in the previous CHRF march and a similar turnout is possible on Sunday.
Activists are planning further demonstrations in the coming weeks. A march in Kwun Tong is being organized on Saturday, August 24. Another rally is expected to be held in Tsuen Wan and Kwai Tsing on Sunday, August 25. A heightened security presence and localized traffic disruptions are expected around all protests. Clashes between security personnel and demonstrators cannot be ruled out.
Context
Protests and mass demonstrations of up to 2 million people have been held in Hong Kong since June 9, in opposition to a controversial bill that would allow authorities in Hong Kong to extradite fugitives wanted in mainland China and other territories. Opponents claim the law would erode freedoms and be used to silence dissent and criticism. The bill has been suspended, though not fully withdrawn. Demonstrations have spread from Hong Kong Island to Kowloon and the New Territories in recent weeks and have also become increasingly violent. On July 21, a group of pro-government men armed with bars and sticks attacked protesters and commuters in Yuen Long, leaving 45 people injured. Activists have also accused the police of using unnecessary force in their attempts to disperse protesters.
Advice
Individuals in Hong Kong are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all demonstrations and accompanying clashes, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments. Budget additional time to travel to Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) and prepare for lingering flight disruptions (e.g. delays and cancelations).
