Hong Kong: The Economist correspondent Sue-Lin Wong refused visa renewal

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November 17, 2021- China correspondent for The Economist Sue-Lin Wong has been denied entry to Hong Kong after the authorities refused to renew her visa. The Australian journalist has worked as an international correspondent for several media outlets. As the authorities further tighten their grip on independent and critical media, Sue-Lin is the latest foreign individual forced out of China’s special administrative region. The Coalition For Women In Journalism extends solidarity to Sue-Lin and urges the Hong Kong authorities to renew her work visa. Independent media and foreign correspondents must be free to report from the region. Such attempts to curb the freedom of the press are also a direct attack on citizens’ right to information. We call on the Chinese and Hong Kong authorities to ensure a safe and conducive environment for independent journalism. 

Sue-Lin was not in Hong Kong when she was informed that her visa is not being renewed. According to the Economist editor, Zanny Minton Beddoes, the authorities have denied permission to Sue-Lin to return to the special region. "We regret their decision, which was given without explanation. We urge the government of Hong Kong to maintain access for the foreign press, which is vital to the territory’s standing as an international city," said Beddoes. 

The journalist took to Twitter to report that she would no longer be able to report from Hong Kong as her request for renewal of work visa has been denied.

Amid wide-spread crackdown by the authorities against free speech and dissenting voices in the country, Sue-Lin’s case is not unique. Data reported by China’s foreign ministry shows that at least 628 individuals working for foreign media outlets, in journalistic capacity or otherwise, have been denied visas. The special administrative region has freedom of speech and the freedom of the press codified Under Article 27 of the Hong Kong Basic Law - the mini-constitution approved by China back in 1997 when it took over control of the region. However, despite claims by higher ups such as Carrie Lam, assuring that the freedom of expression, right to protest and free and independent journalism will be protected, the authorities continue to curb dissenting voices. 

The Coalition For Women In Journalism condemns this move against Sue-Lin Wong and urges the authorities to renew her work visa. We call on Hong Kong’s leadership to reevaluate this decision. The authorities must ensure that foreign correspondents feel safe and free to report from the country. We extend solidarity to Sue-Lin and commend her for her critical and robust reportage.