Hong Kong: Chief Executive suspends extradition bill June 15 /update 15

Event

Hong Kong’s Chief Executive Carrie Lam announced on Saturday, June 15, that the controversial extradition bill has been indefinitely suspended. According to Lam, the bill was suspended due to the recent demonstrations against the law. The Civil Human Rights Front (CHRF) was planning to hold further protests on Sunday, June 16, and Monday, June 17. As of 15:45 (local time), it is unclear if the CHRF is still planning to rally. Heightened security measures and significant disruptions are expected if the protests are held.

Context

Demonstrations on Wednesday, June 12, turned violent after police officers used tear gas, pepper spray, and water cannons to disperse tens of thousands of protesters in Admiralty. Peaceful gatherings were also held on Thursday, June 13. 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.