Hong Kong displays a unique mix of Chinese and Western cultures, a legacy of 155 years of British colonial rule and its role as a world financial center. Following its return to mainland China in 1997, it has moved forward under the banner of “one country, two systems.” Today, though, its special status has been threatened by the overreaching hand of Beijing.
Commentaries
A former aide to a late, ousted premier says Confucianism would find a happy home in a democratic state.
A former aide to a late, ousted premier speaks out in support of peaceful democracy protests in Hong Kong.
Chinese President Xi Jinping is caught between a rock and a hard place as protesters occupy key parts of Hong Kong in their unprecedented quest for full democracy for the former British colony.
Former Chinese patriarch Deng Xiaoping would be turning in his grave at the ongoing debate over Beijing's recent decision that effectively ruled out promised open elections for Hong Kong’s chief executive and lawmakers.
Videos
Yellow umbrellas and makeshift tents were back in central hong kong as protesters gather to mark the first anniverary of the pro-democracy movement – dubbed the umbrella revolution.
But Umbrella Revolution demonstrators pledge to continue the struggle..
RFA’s Cantonese service gathered these sights and sounds from Hong Kong’s Umbrella Revolution.
The outrage followed the release of video showing Hong Kong police beating a handcuffed protester.
Student leaders called for a big turnout to show that the movement still has momentum.
Talks between student-led protesters and government officials are scheduled for Friday.
Protesters will meet with government officials this week to discuss their demands for free elections.
Here are sounds and images from Day 9 of the student-led Occupy movement.
The student-led protesters vow to continue the movement until their demands for free elections are met.
Student-led protesters say movement opponents are supported by Beijing.
Pictures From the Ground
After a court ruling, Hong Kong police move in to remove the Umbrella Movement’s last remaining protesters. Photos: RFA
More than a month into the demonstrations that have at times paralyzed parts of the city of Hong Kong, signs of support for the students asking for the right to elect their leaders are still visible in several areas of the territory. Photos: RFA
Police take pro-democracy protesters by surprise and dismantle barricades blocking traffic after chief executive CY Leung calls the Occupy demonstrations “out of control.”
On day seven of students demonstrations, the mood turns to exhaustion but also to pride.
Before Oct. 3, the protests were peaceful if somewhat disorganized. But what the protesters lacked in organization they made up for in creativity.
Other Features
From the lease of Hong Kong after the Opium War to the return of the city to China in July 1, 1997, this chronology examines the history of Hong Kong during the 99 years of British rule and the years after the handover.
RFA’s audience and others weigh in through calls, email and social media.
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