Hong Kong: Further opposition protests scheduled October 23-27 /update 135

Event

Activists in opposition to the administration of Carrie Lam have called for further protests throughout Hong Kong between Wednesday, October 23, through Sunday, October 27. On Wednesday, participants plan to gather at 19:30 (local time) at the British Consulate-General in Admiralty in support of the motion debate in the UK's House of Lords to afford a secondary citizenship to Hong Kong citizens scheduled on Thursday, October 24. Supporters are planning to meet on Thursday at 19:00 at Chater Garden in Central in solidarity with the Catalonia independence protests. On Saturday, October 26, an anti-communism and anti-totalitarianism protest is scheduled at 13:00 at Tamar Park in Admiralty. Another demonstration organized by healthcare workers is scheduled later on the same day at 19:00, although organizers did not immediately announce a meeting location. Activists have called for a memorial demonstration at 16:00 at Kwun Tong Promenade (Kowloon) on Sunday. Further protests are possible in other urban areas in the coming days.

All MTR, Light Rail, and bus services - except the Airport Express - will cease operations at 22:00 on Tuesday to allow for repair work following violent protests. Up-to-date information on service information and station closures can be found on the MTR website. Continued rail disruptions are expected in the coming days.

A heightened security presence is likely across Hong Kong until the situation fully stabilizes. Severe transportation and business disruptions are to be expected during all periods of protest activity. Clashes between security forces and protesters cannot be ruled out.

Context

On September 4, Chief Executive Carrie Lam announced the withdrawal of a controversial extradition bill, which would have allowed authorities in Hong Kong to extradite fugitives wanted in mainland China and other territories. The bill sparked mass protests of up to 2 million people throughout Hong Kong since June 9. However, protest actions have continued since the government's announcement, as protesters' demands evolved into a wider pro-democracy movement, calling for government reforms and police accountability over violence.

Demonstrations have spread from Hong Kong Island to Kowloon and the New Territories in recent weeks and have also become increasingly violent. Activists have also accused the police of using unnecessary force in their attempts to disperse protesters.

Advice

Individuals in Hong Kong are advised to monitor developments, avoid all protests and demonstrations, prepare for associated disruptions to transportation and business, budget additional time to reach Hong Kong International Airport (HKG), and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.

Individuals are also advised to avoid wearing black and white colors around protest zones or rallies as they are associated with protesters.