Media Incidents in Hong Kong’s First Two Years under the National Security Law Regime

Abstract

This is a listing of key events related to media freedom and independence in the two years since the promultation of the National Security Law for Hong Kong. It is aimed at helping analysts better understand broad patterns and trends. What will strike readers instantly is the sheer number of cases. A less obvious but important point to note is that the many media-related NSL cases have yet to be resolved. Most are awaiting trial. It’s also noteworthy that the NSL is not the only mechanism that the authorities have been using. Other regulations and administrative tools have been deployed to implement their vision of a more responsible and patriotic media profession. A final important observation is that the NSL’s chilling effect has had a wider impact than the actual use of the law. Several outlets, organisations and individuals have pre-emptively exited Hong Kong’s media scene or taken steps to reduce their risk exposure, usually after receiving legal advice and/or threats from a range of actors.

Keywords: Hong Kong, press freedom, censorship, democracy