Wave of Intimidation: Hong Kong Journalists Face Heightened Harassment

The Hong Kong Journalists Association (HKJA) reports escalating harassment and threats against journalists and their families since June. Selina Cheng, HKJA chairperson, highlights the damaging impact on press freedom, with local and international media as well as educational institutions affected. Authorities have yet to respond to complaints.

The Hong Kong Journalists Association (HKJA) has reported increasing harassment and threats directed at journalists and their families over the past three months, starting in June. The HKJA, through Chairperson Selina Cheng, stressed that such acts damage press freedom and are unacceptable.

Targeted individuals include members of HKJA, Hong Kong Free Press, Inmediahk, HK Feature, as well as other local and international media outlets and journalism education institutions. Anonymous complaints from self-proclaimed 'patriots' through email and letter have also been directed at journalists' associates, such as landlords and businesses.

Amid a broader national security clampdown since 2019, two editors have been convicted of sedition, marking a first since 1997. This comes as Hong Kong drops to 135th in the global media freedom index by Reporters Without Borders (RSF). Authorities have yet to respond to complaints filed by affected individuals.

Tom Grundy, founder of Hong Kong Free Press, and representatives from Inmedia and HK Feature, expressed their concerns and appealed for public support to ensure journalism can be practiced without fear.

(With inputs from agencies.)