Hong Kong: Protest groups confirm plans to march on July 14 /update 16

Event

Protest organizers in Hong Kong reiterated their plans to protest following an announcement by Chief Executive Carrie Lam on Tuesday, July 9, regarding the controversial extradition bill. In her statement, Lam stated that the extradition bill was "dead" and would not be considered for the remainder of the legislative period but did not fully withdraw the bill. The Civil Human Rights Front (CHRF) restated their five demands and pledged to continue to hold protests in the coming days and weeks.

The next protest is planned for Sunday, July 14, in the Sha Tin area of the New Territories. As of 14:00 (local time) on Tuesday, details of the time and location had not been announced. Transportation and business disruptions are expected near the protest site along with congestion on public transportation in the area and possible MTR station closures. Heightened security measures are also expected; clashes between security forces and protesters are possible. Other protest events, including sit-ins, marches, and vigils, are possible throughout Hong Kong in the coming days and weeks.

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. Protest organizers claim that 250,000 people marched through Kowloon on July 7.

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.