Hong Kong Media Overseas (HKMO) expresses deep concern regarding reports that the Office for Safeguarding National Security (OSNS) in Hong Kong has summoned several foreign media outlets and journalists under the National Security Law.
The OSNS’s statement warned the city’s foreign media that they must not interfere in the affairs of China and Hong Kong in the name of press freedom. This public statement follows coverage of the catastrophic fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po. This unprecedented action by the OSNS signals a further
deterioration of the Hong Kong media landscape.
In its statement, the OSNS warned that the city’s foreign media outlets must not cross the “red line” and must uphold their professionalism and remain impartial. It also revealed the Office’s hostility towards the media regarding their coverage of the Tai Po fire. The statement went on to warn the media to “watch your back” (自我珍重) and “watch your step” (好自為之), adding that any action deemed anti-China or anti-Hong Kong would not be forgiven, concluding with the ultimatum: “Consider yourselves duly warned. (勿謂言之不預).
This sort of narrative is a explicit threat to the media. If foreign media do not toe the party line, it is likely that foreign journalists will be unable to renew their work visas in Hong Kong, and there will be severe consequences.
The fire at Wang Fuk Court is a matter of great concern to the public in Hong Kong. Journalists, both domestic and international, bear the duty to report the truth, investigate the crux of this disaster, promptly assess the government’s post-disaster plans, and reflect the mood and concerns of the Hong Kong people.
However, the Office’s statement, which labels legitimate media inquiries as ‘smearing’ or ‘false information’, employs rhetoric that politicises normal newsroom operations and undermines the public’s right to know.
The vague and expanding use of national security rhetoric creates uncertainty over what constitutes lawful reporting, forcing newsrooms into self-censorship and further shrinking Hong Kong’s once-open information space.
HKMO calls on the authorities to respect the role of the press, ensure that both foreign and local journalists can operate without intimidation, and respond to public concerns through transparency rather than pressure.
We also urge international media outlets to stand firm and persist in their coverage of the Wang Fuk Court fire. Furthermore, HKMO calls on human rights bodies to continue monitoring the situation in Hong Kong and upholding our core value of truthful reporting.
HKMO extends its deepest condolences to all those affected by this tragic fire. We would also like to pay tribute to the firefighters and volunteers on the ground for their tireless efforts in assisting those in need. HKMO stands in solidarity with our colleagues at this critical juncture, and we thank them for their unwavering dedication.