As harassment escalates, Hong Kong journalists face intimidation amidst a crackdown on press freedom and the chilling effects of national security laws.

In recent months, journalists in Hong Kong have faced significant harassment and intimidation, particularly due to a crackdown under the national security law. The Hong Kong Journalists Association reported a rise in organized assaults, affecting around 15 journalists and their families. This surge in threats includes online harassment and warnings about potential legal consequences for their affiliations. Major independent media outlets like Apple Daily and Stand News have been forcibly shut down, leading to a chilling effect on smaller publications. Advocacy groups like Reporters Without Borders have condemned these actions and called for international support to restore press freedom in Hong Kong, highlighting a troubling decline in the right to information since the implementation of the National Security Law in 2020.

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Title: Increased Intimidation of Journalists in Hong Kong Amid National Security Crackdown

Image: China flag

Date: September 15, 2024

Recent reports indicate a significant rise in harassment and intimidation faced by journalists in Hong Kong. The Hong Kong Journalists Association (HKJA) revealed that over the last three months, amid the ongoing crackdown under the national security law, many journalists have experienced systematic assaults both online and offline.

Selina Chenga, the chairperson of the HKJA, noted this ongoing campaign of intimidation is the largest the organization has seen. Around 15 journalists, their families, and even their neighbors have been targeted with threats and harassment. Chenga emphasized the seriousness of these threats, which often consist of false information, defamation, and even death threats.

The HKJA reported that various media outlets in Hong Kong have been targeted, with many receiving anonymous threats through email and social media. The threats warned that their affiliations with certain organizations could violate national security laws. Social media posts displayed alarming images of journalists alongside graphics indicating violence, such as knives and shooting targets.

International entities like Reporters Without Borders have condemned these actions and are calling for global intervention to protect press freedom in Hong Kong. They highlighted that since the national security law was enacted in June 2020, the Hong Kong government has led an aggressive campaign against freedom of information, resulting in multiple arrests of journalists and the closure of key media outlets, including Apple Daily and Stand News.

The ongoing climate of fear continues to threaten not only individual journalists but the integrity of media freedom in Hong Kong as a whole. The international community is urged to take firm action to ensure that press freedom is restored and journalists can work without fear of intimidation.

This alarming situation underscores the critical need for awareness and support for free journalism in Hong Kong and beyond.

Disclaimer: The headline and image of this report may have been edited for clarity; the content originates from a syndicated feed.

What is happening to journalists in Hong Kong?
Journalists in Hong Kong are facing harassment and threats as the government tightens control over the media under the national security law.

Why are journalists being targeted?
They are targeted for reporting on issues that go against the government, especially topics related to protests and democracy.

What does the national security law do?
The national security law makes it illegal to promote or support independence, subversion, and other actions deemed harmful to national security.

How are journalists responding to the harassment?
Many journalists are trying to stay safe while continuing to report, but some are leaving the profession or moving overseas due to the risks.

Is there support for journalists facing these issues?
There are local and international organizations that offer support and resources for journalists facing harassment, but the situation remains challenging.