In the July 1 Legislative Council riot case, actor Gregory Wong and 5 others stood trial. After 34 days of hearings, 4 were convicted of rioting, including Wong. One defendant, Lam Kam-kwan, also found guilty of criminal damage. The charges against 2 self-proclaimed journalists were not established, but they were convicted of "entering or remaining in the meeting hall." Two reporters were granted bail, while the rest remain in custody. Sentencing set for March 16. Concerns raised over press freedom in the verdict.

The conviction of journalists in the July 1 Legislative Council riot case raises concerns about the Hong Kong court system's treatment of journalists and its alleged neglect of evidence. The verdict appears to overlook the importance of press freedom and fails to consider the evidence presented. This raises worries about potential limitations on journalists' ability to carry out their work. Upholding a free and independent press is crucial for a democratic society. #PressFreedom

Hong Kong Journalists Association expresses concerns over the city's national security law, fearing its impact on press freedom. The law's broad definitions of offenses, including state secrets and external interference, pose challenges for journalists. The association urges authorities to provide clearer definitions to protect reporters and ensure their ability to hold authorities accountable. #HongKong #PressFreedom #NationalSecurityLaw #Article23

Selina Cheng, the current HKJA president, was dismissed by WSJ allegedly due to her presidency role. This event has raised concerns about press freedom and the challenges faced by journalists in Hong Kong. Cheng's situation underscores the complexities journalists encounter in the region.

Threats to press freedom by the Hong Kong government have far-reaching implications beyond the city, impacting international media coverage, global perceptions, trust in institutions, journalists' work, diaspora communities, and the global media landscape.

#HongKong #PressFreedom #HKJA #WSJDismissal

Sep 13: Hong Kong's Press Freedom Under Pressure

Alarming report from the Hong Kong Journalists Association (HKJA):

• 15 media organizations targeted
• Dozens of journalists and families threatened
• 36+ individuals "named" online with accusations
• 8 journalists' addresses received intimidating letters

🔍 Key developments:
- Anonymous "patriots" sending threatening messages
- Attempts to pressure journalists to quit jobs/unions
- Multiple cases reported to police

The HKJA condemns these intimidation attempts and calls for investigations.

Press Freedom Decline:
Since 2019, journalistic freedom in Hong Kong has significantly decreased. The Chinese Communist Party's increasing influence and policy changes have led to a more restrictive environment for independent journalism.

These recent incidents highlight the growing challenges faced by Hong Kong's media, raising concerns about the future of free press in the city.

#PressFreedom #HongKongJournalism #MediaFreedom #HKJA #StandWithJournalists