Hong Kong: Thousands protest for political freedom on October 1

Event

Thousands of protesters took to the streets in Hong Kong on Monday, October 1, over a perceived increasing lack of political freedoms and China's tightening grip. This follows the banning of a pro-independence political party, the Hong Kong National Party, on September 24, which the government claimed was a threat to national security. Further such protests can be expected in the coming days and weeks. 

Context

The October 1 protest coincided with China's National Day, which celebrates the establishment of the Chinese Communist Party.

Hong Kong independence activists have increasingly been advocating for independence from China since large-scale demonstrations in 2014 failed to materialize into reforms.

Advice

Individuals in Hong Kong are advised to avoid all public gatherings as a precaution.