Wave of Harassment Against Hong Kong Journalists Raises Concerns for Press Freedom

Hong Kong journalists and their families have faced increased harassment and intimidation over the last three months, according to the Hong Kong Journalists Association (HKJA). The incidents, spanning online and in-person attacks, have been described as the largest scale of harassment recorded. Authorities urge reporting while calling for upholding the rule of law.

Over the past three months, Hong Kong journalists and their families have faced a significant rise in harassment and intimidation, both online and in person, according to a statement by the Hong Kong Journalists Association (HKJA) on Friday. The organization condemned the actions, describing them as damaging to press freedom.

HKJA chairperson Selina Cheng highlighted the unprecedented scale of the harassment. 'We are making a loud call today to say that we do not accept such behaviour,' Cheng stated. Under Secretary for Security Michael Cheuk echoed the sentiment, emphasizing that Hong Kong is governed by the rule of law and such actions should be reported to authorities.

The intimidation has affected at least 15 journalists, their families, and associates, with instances of anonymous complaints and violent threats via social media platforms like Facebook and Wikipedia. The incidents come amid a broader national security crackdown following the pro-democracy protests of 2019. Critics argue this undermines the autonomy promised to Hong Kong during its handover from Britain to China in 1997.

(With inputs from agencies.)