China’s Clamp Down in Hong Kong Drives Exodus, Dismantles Free Press: Part 1

People (bottom) waving goodbye as passengers make their way through the departure gates of Hong Kong's International Airport on July 22, 2021. Twice a day, Hong Kong's virtually deserted airport fills with the sound of tearful goodbyes as residents, fearful for their future under China's increasingly authoritarian rule, start a new life overseas, mostly in Britain. Isaac Lawrence/AFP via Getty Images

Since the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) implemented the Hong Kong National Security Law in June 2020, the situation in Hong Kong has become increasingly restrictive. Faced with pressure, elites from all walks of life have chosen to leave Hong Kong. Human rights organizations point out that the freedom of the press in Hong Kong is almost destroyed, and the role of Hong Kong journalists is being redefined.

Lee Ka-chiu, a policeman turned politician and the only candidate for the next Chief Executive position, held a briefing on his political platform at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre on April 29. At least five independent media outlets, including The Epoch Times, Hong Kong In-media, Sound of Hope, GettyImages, and The Reporter were denied registration or access to interviews by campaign staff.