Hong Kong: Protesters reassemble in Admiralty June 13 /update 13

Event

Protesters reassembled in Admiralty during the afternoon (local time) of Thursday, June 13, following a day of violent clashes between police officers and demonstrators. As of 13:30, hundreds of protesters peacefully gathered near the Legislative Council Complex and Admiralty Centre. A heightened security presence was also reported in the area.

Authorities announced that government buildings would remain closed through Friday, June 14, and the Legislative Council postponed a reading of the controversial extradition bill that was scheduled for 11:00 on Thursday. Further protests and demonstrations are possible in the coming hours or days, particularly on Thursday, June 20; clashes with security forces cannot be ruled out. A heightened security presence and government, business, and transportation disruptions, including road and MTR closures and restricted areas, are expected.

Context

Tens of thousands of people participated in protests on Wednesday, June 12, in Admiralty, that 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.