Two months of Hong Kong protests against its government which does not seem to end any sooner. What is happening?
What led to protest?
It all started with the extradition bill introduced by Hong Kong in April. The bill would allow extraditing people accused of a crime in territories with whom Hong Kong does not have extradition agreements (this would include mainland China and Taiwan)
Why and when did they start protesting?
Opponents of the bill fear the bill would give mainland China control over Hong Kong — which would lead to unfair treatment/trial under Chinese jurisdiction.
The bill was criticised since the time it was introduced. But it was first on June 9 when the protestors marched against the bill on ground and continued since then.
What do they want?
The suspension of the bill did not satisfy the protestors as they felt it did not meet their demands. Some of the demands are — withdraw the extradition bill completely, right to vote for Chief Executive and legislative council elections, Carrie Lam’s resignation (who they accuse for working in favour of China)
How is it bothering?
World’s 8th busiest airport, Hong Kong international airport cancelled all flights due to the ongoing protest.
This crisis is considered among the biggest challenges under Xi Jinping’s rule.
The crisis has plunged Asian and global markets as well as currencies.
Hong Kong’s flag carrier Cathay Pacific stock reacting negatively on concerns over demand outlook due to the protest.
What next?
Few of the council members have stated they will focus on making a policy address by October, in consultation with the public and will also wait for the protest tensions to calm before their District Council elections that is to be held in November.
