2019 Hong Kong protests

Definition

The 2019 Hong Kong protests were a series of demonstrations and civil unrest that began in March 2019, primarily in response to a proposed extradition bill that would allow individuals to be sent to mainland China for trial. The protests grew to encompass broader demands for democracy, police accountability, and the protection of Hong Kong's autonomy under the 'one country, two systems' framework. This significant movement highlighted the complexities of internet governance and the use of technology in organizing protests in an era where censorship and surveillance are prevalent.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The protests were characterized by large-scale marches, clashes with police, and the use of social media and encrypted messaging apps for organization and communication.
2. A key moment in the protests was the 'Airport Siege' in August 2019, where thousands occupied Hong Kong International Airport, disrupting flights and drawing international attention.
3. The movement featured a unique blend of peaceful protests and more confrontational tactics, including sit-ins and vandalism, leading to significant debate about the methods used.
4. In response to the protests, the Hong Kong government eventually withdrew the controversial extradition bill in September 2019, but protestors continued to demand broader democratic reforms.
5. The role of technology during the protests was critical, as activists used VPNs and other tools to bypass censorship and share real-time information despite attempts by authorities to control narratives online.

Review Questions

• How did the 2019 Hong Kong protests illustrate the impact of internet governance on social movements?
  • The 2019 Hong Kong protests showcased how internet governance, particularly in an environment with strict censorship like China's Great Firewall, shapes social movements. Protestors relied heavily on social media platforms and encrypted messaging apps to organize and communicate despite government efforts to restrict these channels. This dynamic highlighted the importance of digital spaces for mobilization and information sharing during a time of heightened surveillance.
• Discuss the implications of the 'one country, two systems' framework on the demands made during the 2019 Hong Kong protests.
  • The 'one country, two systems' framework was central to the protestors' demands during the 2019 Hong Kong protests. Many demonstrators believed that this principle was being eroded by increasing influence from Beijing, which led to calls for greater democratic freedoms and legal protections. The protests sought not only to address immediate concerns over the extradition bill but also aimed at reaffirming the autonomy promised to Hong Kong under this framework.
• Evaluate the long-term effects that the 2019 Hong Kong protests may have on China's approach to internet governance and civil liberties.
  • The 2019 Hong Kong protests may have lasting implications for China's approach to internet governance and civil liberties by revealing both vulnerabilities and strengths in its censorship strategies. As a result of these protests, China may intensify its efforts to control online discourse through even stricter regulations and surveillance measures. However, the widespread use of technology by activists could inspire similar movements across other regions, challenging state narratives and pushing for more open digital environments despite authoritarian controls.

Related terms

Extradition Bill: A proposed law that aimed to allow extraditions from Hong Kong to mainland China, sparking widespread protests due to fears of undermining Hong Kong's legal independence.

One Country, Two Systems:

The constitutional principle that was meant to guarantee Hong Kong a high degree of autonomy from mainland China following its handover in 1997.

Great Firewall:

China's extensive system of internet censorship that blocks access to foreign websites and limits online communication within the country.