Hong Kong: Further protests expected throughout Hong Kong Oct. 31-Nov. 9 /update 139

Event

Opposition activists have called for further protests throughout Hong Kong between Thursday, October 31, and Saturday, November 9. On October 31, activists plan to gather at 19:30 (local time) at Victoria Park (Causeway Bay), and begin a march at 20:00 to Lan Kwai Fong (Central). As the event coincides with Halloween, organizers have asked for participants to wear a mask and red clothes. A sit-in is also due to take place on the same day at 19:00 at Prince Edward, in remembrance of the police attack on individuals in Prince Edward MTR station on August 31. On Saturday, November 2, a large rally is expected to take place at 15:00 in Victoria Park (Causeway Bay). Activists have also called for a demonstration on Saturday, November 9, to commemorate the fall of the Berlin Wall. Participants plan to gather at 15:00 at Edinburgh Place (Central), where they are due to rally while building and eventually tearing down a wall until 21:30.

Demonstrations are expected to continue over the near term and may occur with little warning. Rail disruptions are expected in the coming days and weeks. Up-to-date information on service information and station closures can be found on the MTR website.

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, 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.