February 23, 2014

Thousands took to Hong Kong streets today to march for press freedom, in a protest organised by journalists as fears grow that free expression is being compromised. AFP pic.Protesters took to Hong Kong streets today to march for press freedom, in a demonstration organised by journalists as fears grow that free expression is being compromised.

Organisers estimated 6,000 participated in the march though police said the figure was 1,600 many wore blue ribbons as a symbol advocating free expression in the media.

There have been mounting concerns that China seeks to tighten control over the semi-autonomous region and rein in the press.

"Headlines have been edited, interviews were barred, and columnists were fired. Some see these as commercial decisions or even labour disputes.

But we have to see this from the context of tightening control on media in Hong Kong," Shirley Yam, vice-chairwoman of the Hong Kong Journalists Association, said at the rally.

Protesters chanted slogans such as "Free the people. Free Hong Kong. No censorship", as they marched through the streets before arriving at the district of Admiralty where the city's government headquarters are situated.

This month, two international organisations expressed concerns over the status of press freedom in Hong Kong.

The New York-based Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) said media freedom in Hong Kong was currently "at a low point", citing self-censorship among reporters, financial and physical threats against the media and legislative steps that could hinder investigative reporting.

Paris-based Reporters Without Borders said Hong Kong's media independence "is now in jeopardy" as China flexes its muscles to stifle critical coverage.

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