Hong Kong: Extradition bill protests planned in Central, Wan Chai June 26 /update 1

Event

Further protests are expected on Wednesday, June 26, in Central and Wan Chai as world leaders gather in Osaka (Japan) for the G20 Summit. Organizers are calling for people to gather at Chater Garden at 09:00 (local time) on Wednesday before silently marching to deliver petitions to 19 foreign consulates. The group is planning to deliver letters to the US consulate, UK consulate, EU office, and delegations from Japan, Germany, Canada, Italy, Australia, Indonesia, and others.

Another demonstration is planned by the Civil Human Rights Front (CHRF) on Wednesday night. Other demonstrations are possible in the area, particularly near the Legislative Council complex and other government buildings. A heightened security presence and transportation disruptions are also likely throughout the day.

Context

Protests and mass demonstrations of up to 2 million people have been held since June 9 in opposition to a controversial 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 and criticism.

Advice

Individuals in Hong Kong are advised to monitor the situation, adhere to instructions issued by local authorities, refrain from discussing political topics in public or on social media, avoid all public demonstrations due to the risk of violence and arrest, and anticipate localized transportation and business disruptions and a heightened security presence.