Women Press Freedom Voices Outrage Over Hong Kong's Newly Adopted Security Laws Silencing Journalists
Government unanimously approves new national security law — marking continuation of political crackdown starting 2019 — intensifying ability to suppress critical voices
Women Press Freedom stands firmly against the recent passage of national security law Article 23 in Hong Kong, which severely threatens the fundamental freedoms of expression and the press. These laws, passed at the behest of Beijing and designed to crack down on opposition and dissent, have introduced penalties, including life imprisonment, for vaguely defined political crimes such as treason and insurrection. More alarmingly, they target offenses like "external interference" and the theft of state secrets, casting a wide net that could ensnare journalists, among others, who play a critical role in holding power to account and informing the public.
Journalists, whose work is essential to the functioning of a healthy democracy and the protection of human rights, now face unprecedented risks in Hong Kong. The legislation's vague wording and the potential for its misuse to suppress critical reporting create an atmosphere of fear and self-censorship. This not only threatens the livelihoods and safety of journalists but also undermines Hong Kong's status as an international city and a bastion of media freedom in Asia.
The provision allowing police to prevent suspects, including journalists, from consulting with the lawyers of their choice if deemed a threat to national security further erodes due process and the rule of law. Such measures are antithetical to the principles of fairness, transparency, and justice.
It is disconcerting that the Hong Kong Security Bureau dismissed Amnesty International's 34-page submission during the consultation process by labeling it as originating from an "anti-China" or "anti-government" external organization.
We call upon the international community to stand in solidarity with journalists in Hong Kong and demand the repeal of these draconian laws. It is imperative that we support efforts to protect press freedom, advocate for journalists' rights to report without fear of retaliation, and uphold the values of democracy and human rights in Hong Kong.
Women Press Freedom is an initiative by The Coalition For Women In Journalism
The Coalition For Women In Journalism is a global organization of support for women journalists. The CFWIJ pioneered mentorship for mid-career women journalists across several countries around the world and is the first organization to focus on the status of free press for women journalists. We thoroughly document cases of any form of abuse against women in any part of the globe. Our system of individuals and organizations brings together the experience and mentorship necessary to help female career journalists navigate the industry. Our goal is to help develop a strong mechanism where women journalists can work safely and thrive.
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