Hong Kong: Pro-democracy protests June 26 /update 1

Event

On Monday, June 26, pro-democracy protesters took to the streets of Hong Kong ahead of Chinese President Xi Jinping visit to the territory, scheduled for June 29-July 1.

Local authorities announced over the weekend that 9000 police officers would be deployed during President Xi's three-day visit and that political banners, as well as protest slogans and images, would be banned during the visit to avoid "embarrassment."

Context

China confirmed on June 23 that President Xi Jinping would visit the Special Administrative Region of Hong Kong from Thursday, June 29, through Saturday, July 1, to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Hong Kong's return to China from British rule. The visit is highly likely to be perceived as provocative to Hong Kong's pro-democracy and pro-independence activists. Protesters announced they will gather during the associated celebrations, shrouding Xi's visit in a huge security operation.

Xi will visit the garrison of China's People's Liberation Army in central Hong Kong and will inaugurate the territory's newly-elected leader, Carrie Lam, on July 1.

On July 1, 1997, Britain returned Hong Kong back to China under a deal which gives Hong Kong widespread autonomy for 50 years.

Advice

Individuals in Hong Kong are advised to keep abreast of the situation and to avoid the vicinity of demonstrations as a precaution due to the potential for violence.