Journalists in Hong Kong and Taiwan battle Beijing’s influence
The state of media freedom in Hong Kong and Taiwan is significant in part because news outlets in both places have in the past provided comprehensive, independent coverage of China, filling a gap left by the tightly restricted mainland press. Any rise in interference, including self-censorship, would imperil the ability of the Hong Kong and Taiwanese press to play a watchdog role.
“Back to a Maoist Future” – 2013 report on press freedom in China and Hong Kong
IFJ’s report documents the continued deterioration of press freedoms in Mainland China, as well as Hong Kong and Macau. It takes its title in direct response to Chinese authorities adopting more repressive measures in 2013 reminiscent of the Mao era four decades ago, including direct censorship, Internet surveillance, abuse of legal process, harassment and intimidation, and televised confessions of journalists and bloggers without trial.
Concern over Hong Kong newspaper’s sudden decision to replace its chief editor
The Hong Kong Journalists Association is gravely concerned over the replacement of “Ming Pao”‘s chief editor by a Malaysian journalist. Some of the paper’s staff fear the move will pose further restrictions on reporting and raise doubts about the paper’s editorial direction in the future, especially in regards to sensitive issues like political reform.
Hong Kong media outlets pressured to submit journalistic materials for corruption investigation
The International Federation of Journalists strongly opposes the pressure on two Hong Kong media outlets to become tools for law enforcement; Commercial Radio and the “iSunAffairs” magazine are being asked to provide their journalistic materials to assist in the investigation of a corruption case.
Hong Kong police urged to protect media
Police stood by as various photographers were blocked, verbally harassed, pushed and attacked by unidentified people while covering a scuffle at Mongkok, Kowloon, Hong Kong.
Report points to deterioration in press freedom in Hong Kong
Leung Chun-ying’s first year as Hong Kong’s chief executive has brought about bad omens for freedom of expression and press freedom, according to the Hong Kong Journalists Association annual report.
Journalists’ association condemns successive attacks on Hong Kong media group
The HKJA strongly condemns the repeated threats and attacks on people associated with the Next Media Group, as it has reasons to suspect that this series of atrocities targets the media industry in Hong Kong.
In Hong Kong law, privacy may trump public interest
Provisions of Hong Kong’s privacy law that went into effect 1 April 2013 could subject journalists to five years in jail or large fines if they reveal information that “causes psychological harm” or “causes loss.”
Hong Kong government urged to strictly adhere to UNHRC proposals to better protect press freedom
HKJA welcomes remarks by the United Nations Human Rights Committee (UNHRC) urging the Hong Kong Government to enact legislation to ensure access to information and to investigate attacks on journalists so as to protect freedom of expression and press freedom.
Journalists attacked in Hong Kong and Mainland China
A correspondent for a broadcaster and four of her colleagues were attacked by unidentified thugs after they finished filming at a village in China’s Hebei province.
Review of press freedom in China and Hong Kong in 2012
According to the International Federation of Journalists, 2012 saw an escalation in the efforts to control information and censor the media, with the management of media outlets in China receiving up to a dozen restrictive orders a day and a number of journalists who were suspended or forced to leave their jobs due to pressure from Chinese authorities.
Hong Kong Chief Executive threatens newspaper with legal action
The Hong Kong Journalists Association regrets the Chief Executive’s threat of legal action over a newspaper column and demands that he withdraw the letter of intent.
Media protest Hong Kong decree limiting access to information
A record number of journalists and professional bodies have come together to sign a petition calling on the Hong Kong government to withdraw an ordinance that would limit access to company directors’ data.
Concern over alleged political interference in Hong Kong broadcaster
The Chinese Liaison Office was allegedly exercising undue political influence over the editorial policies of the Hong Kong-based Digital Broadcasting Corporation, which was recently forced to cease operations.
Journalists’ organisation condemns violent attacks on Hong Kong media outlets
Although the Hong Kong-based Sing Tao News Corporation did not receive threats or a warning prior to two violent attacks, it believes it was clearly targeted in the malicious acts.
Masked men attack Hong Kong online media outlet known for independent reporting
The Hong Kong-based Inmedia outlet is known for its independent reporting on issues such as local government, social justice and politics.