Young China Watchers

This month, Sam speaks with Hong Kong Free Press writer and Editorial Director Kris Cheng. Kris has been closely covering local Hong Kong political news, including the ongoing pro-democracy protests. When asked what made this summer’s protests different from others in Hong Kong’s history, Kris puts it simply: “People were willing to risk it.” He describes the protestors storming the Legislative Council as evidence of the people’s commitment, identifying June 9, 2019 as a turning point in the movement. During their August 20 conversation, Sam and Kris discuss the future of the protests and what factors have allowed them to persist for three months and counting. They compare the 2014 and 2019 protests, pointing out the intensifying use of tear gas and force by police as well as the protestors’ resolve. They also cover the Hong Kong government’s relationship with Beijing and the possibility of China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) becoming involved in curbing protestors. Kris highlights crucial components of an