Explainer: Websites Blocked in Hong Kong – When, How, and Why the List Is Growing - fundsforNGOs

A growing number of websites are being blocked in Hong Kong, raising concerns about internet freedom in the region. This article explores the timeline, methods, and motivations behind these restrictions, highlighting the implications for civil liberties and the digital landscape.

Key Takeaways

Hong Kong’s internet censorship is increasing, with various websites blocked by ISPs.
The national security law enacted in 2020 has empowered authorities to demand website removals.
The methods of blocking are often opaque, with no public list of censored sites.

The Context of Internet Censorship in Hong Kong

Historically, Hong Kong has been known for its relatively free and open internet compared to mainland China. However, recent developments indicate a shift towards increased censorship. The introduction of the national security law in June 2020 has been a pivotal moment, granting authorities extensive powers to control online content.

Legal Framework for Blocking Websites

Several laws have been utilized to justify the blocking of websites:

National Security Law (2020): This law allows police to order the removal of online content deemed a threat to national security.
Unified Carrier License Guidelines (2022): These guidelines empower authorities to instruct telecom companies to block websites and communications.
Crimes Ordinance: This older legislation has been used to prosecute various computer-related offenses, but its application has been criticized as overly broad.

How Are Websites Blocked?

The blocking of websites in Hong Kong is primarily achieved through DNS tampering. This method involves intercepting requests to access certain websites and checking them against a predefined blocklist. Unlike the sophisticated censorship methods employed in mainland China, Hong Kong’s approach is relatively rudimentary.

Notable Cases of Blocked Websites

Several high-profile websites have faced restrictions in recent years:

HKChronicles: An anti-government site blocked in January 2021 at the request of local authorities.
Taiwan’s Transitional Justice Commission: Its website became inaccessible in February 2021, reflecting the broader trend of silencing dissent.
Hong Kong Watch: This UK NGO’s website was largely blocked in February 2022, raising alarms about the implications for international organizations operating in the region.
Online June 4th Museum: This site, dedicated to the memory of the Tiananmen Square protests, was blocked shortly after its launch in September 2021.

The Implications of Censorship

The increasing censorship in Hong Kong poses significant risks to freedom of expression and access to information. Activists and organizations have expressed concerns that the city is gradually adopting a model similar to mainland China’s Great Firewall. The lack of transparency regarding which websites are blocked and the criteria for such actions further complicates the situation.

Conclusion

As the list of blocked websites in Hong Kong continues to grow, the implications for civil liberties and the free flow of information are profound. The situation calls for vigilance from both local and international communities to safeguard the principles of free expression and access to information in the region.