phd in law hong kong

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Established by the Hong Kong Research Grants Council (RGC) in 2009, the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme   (HKPFS) aims to attract the best and brightest students in the world to pursue their PhD programmes in Hong Kong's universities. The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) now invites HKPFS applications for admissions in the 2024-2025 academic year.

CUHK is a highly esteemed, forward-looking comprehensive research university recognised for its excellence both regionally and globally. We aim to consolidate its position as a centre of excellence for cutting-edge, interdisciplinary research with a global impact and seek to optimise opportunities and make significant contributions to society by translating research findings into practical applications.

With the support of five State Key Laboratories and a wide array of approximately 300 research institutes and research centres, CUHK has long promoted interdisciplinary research and achieved excellence on local, national and international levels. With the supervision and inspiration of diligent world-class scholars who excel in their professional fields, our PhD candidates can find the best strategy to achieve their study objectives.

With the support of five State Key Laboratories and a wide array of over 300 research institutes and research centres, CUHK has long promoted interdisciplinary research and achieved excellence on local, national and international levels. With the supervision and inspiration of diligent world-class scholars who excel in their professional fields, our PhD candidates can find the best strategy to achieve their study objectives in a straightforward and result-oriented pathway.

To cater for different study needs, CUHK offers a wide array of PhD programmes through 8 Faculties: Arts, Business Administration, Education, Engineering, Law, Medicine, Science, and Social Science. Explore our extensive range of PhD programmes at https://www.gs.cuhk.edu.hk/admissions/ .

Pursuing graduate studies in Hong Kong under the HKPFS is attractive.

Not only it provides significant financial support for living, but also encourages international exposure and collaborations through research-related travel allowances. In addition, Hong Kong is a vivid city with many opportunities for scientific and technological career development. Studying at CUHK as an HKPFS awardee will help me fulfil my research potential and facilitate my scientific career development.

With the HKPFS provided by CUHK, I was able to focus on my research wholeheartedly.

During my PhD study at the Department of Sports Science and Physical Education at CUHK, I was surrounded and supervised by world-class researchers in an environment that enabled me to work hard and to enjoy life on a beautiful campus in a vibrant and exciting city.

CUHK has been the perfect place for me to explore my passion.

The support of our professors, the amazing learning resources on offer and the beauty of the campus are just a few of many things that I cherish about studying here. There are always new experiences to discover in this diverse campus situated in a multicultural city.

Pursuing my PhD degree in Gender Studies at CUHK with support from the HKPFS has been a highly rewarding experience so far. 

I am grateful to be enrolled in a programme that offers a stimulating interdisciplinary learning environment, solid research training from passionate, skilled faculty members, and support to be autonomous in shaping my intellectual interests and career path.

It is a great privilege to be a part of CUHK, one of the top universities worldwide. 

The University enables me to revolutionise my future career as a scientist. In addition to its well-respected professors, CUHK provides high-tech equipment and research facilities to help me advance my research.

Studying PhD at CUHK’s JC School of Public Health and Primary Care has been an incredible experience for me. 

With supportive supervisor and an innovative, collaborative research environment, I have gained valuable insights into producing high-quality research work. I highly recommend the programme to potential students who seek to enhance their research capabilities.

Studying at CUHK has been a great experience so far.

The school’s rich facilities, multicultural setting and natural surroundings ensure an excellent learning environment. The Anthropology department is extremely friendly and stimulating, with my supervisor and other faculty members providing strong guidance and support. 

I feel privileged to have the opportunity to study at CUHK. 

CUHK offers world-class infrastructure and a serene campus for research. Being at CUHK, I am able to work under the supervision of top-notch scholars. The excellent support and guidance I receive from my supervisors are testament to the university’s commitment to professionalism. 

Pursuing a PhD degree at CUHK Engineering is an extraordinary experience.

With top-tier supervisors and a world-class research environment, students perform cutting-edge research and publish high-quality academic papers. The Faculty’s close connections with mainland China and the world provide lots of opportunities to collaborate with world-class researchers during and after my PhD study. 

I am honoured to be supported by HKPFS to embark on my exciting PhD journey at CUHK, a regional and global leader in state-of-the-art medical research.

The robust momentum and academic atmosphere at CUHK Medicine have always motivated me in my pursuit of research excellence. 

Studying at CUHK has been an exceptional experience.

Diversity and inclusion are welcoming. The learning environment with stalwart researchers conducting world-class studies is altogether compelling. I have access to any study material I need. I am deeply indebted to HKPFS and CUHK for this opportunity to pursue my dreams.

CUHK Business School is the perfect platform for me to grow and flourish as an academic.

The rigorous academic training received from our extraordinary faculty equipped me with high-quality research skills that allow me to engage with global academic networks. Being awarded the HKPFS has been a major achievement and blessing for me. 

• Submit an initial application via the RGC website .
• Each applicant may choose up to two programmes in each application.

RGC application deadline 1 Dec 2023 at 12:00nn (Hong Kong Time)

• Obtain a HKPFS reference number.

• Submit your full application through the CUHK Online Application System and quote the HKPFS reference number.

CUHK application deadline 1 Dec 2023 at 11:59pm (Hong Kong Time)

• Attend interview, if shortlisted.
• RGC announces HKPFS results.

PhD in Law, Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme

; leiden university , hong kong.

The School of Law at City University of Hong Kong has an outstanding reputation as a leading law school. We are consistently ranked among the top law schools internationally in THE rankings. We foster a culture of integrated research and teaching, drawing on the expertise of our faculty and an internationally diverse student body. Our faculty are engaged in cutting-edge research that impacts legal reform and policy in Hong Kong, Greater China and beyond. We encourage both theoretical and applied research with local, regional or international significance. 

The School’s research strengths include public law fields such as human rights, constitutional law, and criminal law; private law fields, including corporate law, commercial law and financial regulation; as well as comparative law and international law. For potential areas of research supervision, you may browse our staff profiles (https://www.cityu.edu.hk/slw/about-school/our-people?f%5B0%5D=slw_staff_type%3A1101 ) and our list of staff areas of interest and expertise (https://www.cityu.edu.hk/slw/research/areas-research-expertise ). The School of Law looks forward to receiving your application. 

For those interested in research on the Chinese mainland, the School offers a unique opportunity to engage with sitting PRC judges who are participating in the JSD (Chinese Judges) programme. Alternatively, our research degree programme also offers rich opportunities to engage with international scholars as well as in-service PRC judges and other legal experts from Greater China.  

Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme  

The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS), established by the Research Grants Council (RGC) of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government, aims to attract the best and brightest students in the world to pursue their research degree programs at a Hong Kong institution. 

Funding and Scholarship  

The Fellowship provides awardees with a monthly stipend of HK$27,600 (~US$3,538) and a conference and research related travel allowance of HK$13,800 (~US$1,760) per year for a maximum of three years. (These rates are for 2024/25. They are subject to revision from time to time.) 

For Fellowship awardees who are admitted to a 4-year PhD programme, CityU will provide a monthly studentship at the same level as the RGC Fellowship for their fourth year of study. 

Post-Doctoral Positions at CityU School of Law  

HKPFS recipients of CityU School of Law will be favourably considered for a 12-month post-doc position after they have successfully completed their PhD. Selection will be based on consideration of relevant factors, including academic achievements, availability of a suitable faculty member as supervisor, and availability of funding for the post-doc position. 

English Proficiency Requirements  

For applicants from non-English speaking universities, unless they provide proof that English is the language of instruction for all courses , they are required to attach score results of TOEFL or IELTS in their PhD applications to the universities concerned. 

For further details of the Scheme, please visit Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme

Application Deadlines  

Applicants must first register at the RGC’s Online Application System and obtain a reference number on or before 1 December 2023 at 12 noon (Hong Kong time or GMT +8 hours) . 

Applicants are required to submit a full application, including supporting documents, to CityU through the Online Application System on  or before 11:59pm (Hong Kong time or GMT +8 hours), 1 December 2023 . 

Prospective students are strongly encouraged to contact potential supervisors in their subject area before submitting an application, to ensure that appropriate supervision will be available for a given research project. 

Enquiries  

School of Law

City University of Hong Kong

83 Tat Chee Avenue

Tel: (852) 3442 8008

Fax: (852) 3442 0190

E-mail: [email protected]  

Website: http://www.cityu.edu.hk/slw  

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• Professor Simon Ying-Kit LAW Profile

Professor Simon Ying-Kit LAW 羅英傑

Department Chairperson Cheung Kung-Hai Professor in Gastrointestinal Surgery Chair Professor of Esophageal and Upper Gastrointestinal Surgery Chief of Division of Esophageal and Upper Gastrointestinal Surgery Chief of Service

• MBBChir(Cantab), MS(HK), PhD(HK), FRCSEd, FCSHK, FHKAM(Surgery)

• Esophageal and upper gastrointestinal surgery

Simon Law graduated with First Class Honours from the University of Cambridge in England and received his post-graduate training at the Department of Surgery at The University of Hong Kong. Currently, he serves as the Department Chairperson, Cheung Kung-Hai Professor in Gastrointestinal Surgery, Chair Professor, and Chief of Esophageal and Upper Gastrointestinal Surgery, the Department of Surgery, School of Clinical Medicine, The University of Hong Kong. Throughout his career, Professor Law has focused on benign and malignant disorders of the upper gastrointestinal tract, with a particular emphasis on esophageal and gastric cancers, motility disorders, and gastroesophageal reflux disease. He has developed expertise in various endoscopic diagnostic and treatment techniques for foregut diseases, surgical methods including minimally invasive and robot-assisted surgery, and multimodality treatments of esophageal and gastric cancers. In addition to his clinical work, Professor Law has been an active participant in many professional organizations. He served as a council member of the College of Surgeons of Hong Kong, Chairman of the General Surgery Board, and Chief Examiner of the Joint Fellowship Examination of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh and The College of Surgeons of Hong Kong. Moreover, he is the past president of the Hong Kong Society of Upper Gastrointestinal Surgeons and a member of the Education and Accreditation Committee of the Medical Council of Hong Kong. Professor Law has also played a significant role in many international societies, including as a Consultant to the International Society of Digestive Surgery (ISDS), Asia Representative of the Member Services Committee of the Society for Surgeons of the Alimentary Tract (SSAT), and Secretary of the Hong Kong-China Chapter of the American College of Surgeons. He was co-chairman of the Education Committee of the International Society of Diseases of the Esophagus (ISDE) and is the current President of the same society. He is an honorary member of both the American Surgical Association (ASA) as well as the European Surgical Association (ESA). He currently serves on the ASA as a member of the Honorary Fellowship Committee of East Asia and is a member of the scientific committee of the ESA annual scientific meeting. Professor Law has an extensive publication record, with 332 articles and 45 book chapters to his name. His work has been featured in numerous prestigious medical journals. He has also contributed to several seminal surgical textbooks, such as  Mastery of Surgery, Maingot’s Abdominal Operations, Pearson’s Thoracic and Esophageal Surgery, and Shackelford’s Surgery of the Alimentary Tract.  In recognition of his contributions to the field, Professor Law has been invited to speak at conferences and symposia around the world on over 400 occasions.

Research interests

Publications and achievements.

Department of Surgery

2/F, Professorial Block

Queen Mary Hospital

102 Pokfulam Road

Hong Kong SAR, China

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The information contained in this website is solely for the purpose of promoting academic exchange.  None of such information is intended to be for, nor shall therefore be treated as, dissemination of professional service information of doctors to the public.  If you are interested in obtaining any information about the professional practice of our clinical staff members, please visit the website of HKU Health System at  https://hkuhs.med.hku.hk/ en/homepage/our-professional . 

Copyright © 2024 Department of Surgery, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong. All rights reserved.

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Introduction

Our Visiting Researcher Programme welcomes high-calibre PhD candidates who are studying in a law school in any places in the world other than Hong Kong to come and stay in our Centre to conduct research for a period of not more than three months.

During their visits, Visiting Researchers may be allowed to audit one or two Law School courses on a non-credit basis after they have received permission from the relevant course instructors. Besides, they may also participate in the seminars, conferences and other academic activities of CCCL and the School of Law.

Application

While applicants of this Programme may be nominated by CCCL members, we also welcome unsolicited applications. A strict and competitive selection procedure will be conducted by CCCL core members to decide the successful applicants.

Application Form

CCCL Visiting Researcher Application Form

Former CCCL Visiting Researchers (since 2020)

*The information/materials collected will be used for the purpose of application consideration only. The personal data collected will be kept confidential and may be transferred to the relevant University departments for processing. For more details, please refer to the University Privacy Policy https://www.cityu.edu.hk/web/privacy .

On August 12, 2024, Hong Kong’sCourt of Final Appeal unanimously rejected the appeals of Jimmy Lai and six other pro-democracy figures who were convicted for their participation in an unauthorised assembly during the city’s pivotal 2019 pro-democracy protests .

Jimmy Lai, the septuagenarian founder of the now-shuttered pro-democracy newspaper, Apple Daily , stands as a symbol of Hong Kong’s embattled press freedom. Alongside him, eminent democracy advocate Martin Lee KC and others joined the ranks of those found guilty amidst the intense 2019 demonstrations demanding greater autonomy from Beijing’s tightening grip. Although a lower court invalidated their charges for organising the rally, their participation in the unauthorised event was deemed unlawful.

Central to Lai’s appeal was the invocation of the principle of “operational proportionality,” a doctrine arising from precedents set by the UK’s Supreme Court, addressing whether their convictions unduly constrained their fundamental human rights. However, the Hong Kong court’s steadfast decision emphasises legal adherence over international human rights benchmarks, stirring dialogue about the balance between security and freedom.

Notably, the court’s decision occurred against a backdrop of increasing scrutiny surrounding the role of foreign judges within Hong Kong’s judicial system. This debate was rekindled by the recent resignations of esteemed British judges Lawrence Collins and Jonathan Sumption after The Committee for Freedom in Hong Kong’s report cited growing concerns about the erosion of legal autonomy and a shift towards authoritarian governance under the auspices of Beijing’s tightened national security law, finding:

The remaining overseas NPJs should step down from the Hong Kong Court of Final Appeal due to the severe erosion of human rights, judicial independence, and rule of law in Hong Kong. They would be following in the footsteps of their three colleagues who stepped down in 2022 due to concerns that their presence on the court was legitimising Hong Kong’s authoritarian regime.

One foreign judge who has come under fire for his involvement in Hong Kong’s judiciary is Lord David Neuberger, a former President of the UK Supreme Court. Neuberger has faced intense criticism for his decision to sit on the panel overseeing Lai’s trial, which has been widely decried as a “sham” by human rights groups. His involvement has been seen as a troubling endorsement of the proceedings, which are widely viewed as politically motivated and a violation of Hong Kong’s promised autonomy.

Further, Neuberger’s position on expert panel under the Media Freedom of Coalition of States, an independent entity and advisory body has also been called into question acts as the secretariat for the High Level Panel  The Committee for the Freedom of Hong Kong’s Director Mark Sabbah described this as “mind-boggling” given that Neuberger has lent his credibility to a judicial process that many view as a crackdown on independent media. Jimmy Lai’s Apple Daily was a vocal critic of the Hong Kong government. By presiding over Lai’s case, Neuberger has been accused of undermining the very principles of media freedom that his IBA Panel is meant to defend.

Human rights activist Mark Sabbah told JURIST that Neuberger’s actions are “bringing the British legal system into disrepute” and “literally showing that British judges can be packaged and bought.” The IBA itself has faced criticism for its silence on Neuberger’s involvement in the Hong Kong trial.

JURIST reached out to The High Level Panel of Legal Experts on Media Freedom, which serves as an advisory body to the Media Freedom Coalition of States. Lady Helena Kennedy LT KC, a senior lawyer on the Panel, expressed concern over how “the law in Hong Kong is being weaponised and used against the pro-Democracy movement.” She believes “UK judges should not sit on the court, nor should UK lawyers participate in prosecuting cases,” emphasising her position clearly as  outlined in the opening paragraph of a 15 August statement by the Director of the IBAHRI, Lady Helena Kennedy of the Shaws LT KC. 

Regarding protests, Kennedy notes that while most democratic nations require permits, “the decision to refuse a permit was discriminatory and disproportionate.”She criticises the harsh sentences given to Martin Lee KC and Margaret Ng for participating in a peaceful vigil, considering them “excessive” and questions, “Why prison? And why the distinction made of Jimmy?” referring to British media mogul Jimmy Lai’s sentence, which far exceeds that which was handed down to others, making a show trial of Mr. Lai.

While retired judges can choose their roles, Lord Neuberger continues in Hong Kong to “support the Hong Kong judiciary in their efforts to preserve the Rule of Law.” Although Kennedy respects him as “a person of the highest integrity … acting out of the best of intentions,” Kennedy believes the line to participate has been crossed, aligning with the International Bar Association’s Human Rights Institute’s view that participation in Hong Kong’s judicial processes should cease due to the Rule of Law’s ongoing assault. However, if Neuberger is a man of the highest integrity, how can he sit on the CCP-led courts, without any fairness under the rule of law and then sentence a septuagenarian to prison for peaceful protest?

Neuberger, a former President of the UK Supreme Court, has faced intense criticism for his decision to sit on the panel overseeing Lai’s trial. This is a man who has spent his career upholding the rule of law, yet he sees fit to participate in a judicial process that is widely regarded as a sham. At 78 years old, one would expect Neuberger to be a stalwart defender of human rights and the principles of justice. Instead, he appears to be prostituting himself to the Chinese government for cash, lending his credibility to a system that is actively working to undermine the very values he once swore to uphold.

The question begs to be asked: at what point does a learned man of the law, a former president of the Supreme Court think it is appropriate to jail a septuagenarian for exercising their right to free speech? Is this really the legacy Neuberger wants to leave behind? It’s a shameful indictment of his character and a betrayal of the principles that have guided his career. Such individuals, who were once bastions of the rule of law, are now complicit in the erosion of Hong Kong’s judicial independence. It’s a stain on the UK’s reputation as a champion of human rights and the rule of law.

Since this piece went to Press, Neuberger has resigned from the High level Panel on Media Freedom, saying in a letter: “I have now concluded that I should go now ” due to the prospects that his position within Hong Kong’s Courts should “detract from the work of the High Level Panel.”  This is despite the hypocrisy of choosing to focus on his position as a non-permanent judge in Hong Kong and continue with this show-trial shows that money talks, and human rights, and deciding to side with the suppression of free expression can be bought.

In light of these developments, concerns about the independence of Hong Kong’s judiciary have grown. The Court of Final Appeal’s rejection of Lai’s appeal has sparked fears that the city’s judicial system is becoming increasingly beholden to Beijing’s influence. The recent resignations of British judges Collins and Sumption have only added to these concerns, raising questions about the long-term viability of Hong Kong’s judicial independence.

As Hong Kong navigates this critical juncture, it is essential to consider the implications of these events on the city’s future. The international community must closely monitor developments in Hong Kong and hold its leaders accountable for upholding the rule of law and protecting fundamental freedoms. The fate of Jimmy Lai and other pro-democracy activists serves as a powerful reminder of the human cost of erosion of judicial independence and the importance of safeguarding democratic values in the face of authoritarianism.

Ultimately, Hong Kong’s judiciary stands at a crossroads. Will it continue down a path of increasing subservience to Beijing’s will, or will it find a way to maintain its independence and uphold the principles of justice and fairness? The answer to this question will have far-reaching consequences not only for Hong Kong but also for the global community, which looks to this city as…as a beacon of freedom and democracy in the Asia-Pacific region.

The rejection of Jimmy Lai’s appeal has sparked widespread condemnation from human rights groups and international observers, who see it as a clear example of the erosion of Hong Kong’s judicial independence. The European Union, the United States, and other countries have expressed concerns about the decision, with some calling for the immediate release of Lai and other pro-democracy activists.

In the face of this mounting pressure, Hong Kong’s leaders must decide whether to continue down a path of repression or to find a way to restore the city’s reputation as a bastion of freedom and democracy. The fate of Jimmy Lai and other pro-democracy activists hangs in the balance, and their treatment will serve as a powerful indicator of Hong Kong’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting fundamental freedoms.

As the world watches, it is essential to remember that Hong Kong’s struggle for democracy and freedom is not just a local issue but a global one. The city’s fate serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of safeguarding democratic values and protecting human rights in the face of authoritarianism.

Hong Kong’s judiciary stands at a critical juncture. The rejection of Jimmy Lai’s appeal has sparked widespread concern about the erosion of judicial independence and the rule of law in the city. As Hong Kong navigates this challenging time, it is essential to prioritize the protection of fundamental freedoms and the upholding of democratic values. The fate of Jimmy Lai and other pro-democracy activists serves as a powerful reminder of the human cost of repression and the importance of safeguarding human rights in the face of authoritarianism.

Ultimately, Hong Kong’s future depends on its ability to maintain its independence, uphold the rule of law, and protect fundamental freedoms. The international community must continue to monitor developments in Hong Kong closely and hold its leaders accountable for any actions that undermine these core values. By doing so, we can help ensure that Hong Kong remains a beacon of freedom and democracy in the Asia-Pacific region for generations to come.

As this article goes to press, Jimmy Lai remains behind bars, his fate uncertain. The international community continues to call for his release and for the restoration of Hong Kong’s judicial independence. The city’s leaders, meanwhile, face a choice: to continue down a path of repression or to find a way to restore Hong Kong’s reputation as a bastion of freedom and democracy.

One thing is certain: democracies and autocracies, dictatorships and theocracies will be watching.

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Israel begins removing settlers

On August 17, 2005, Israel began removing settlers from certain occupied territories in the West Bank. The move began Prime Minister Ariel Sharon's unilateral disengagement plan. Learn more about the Israeli disengagement plan from the Washington Post.

Hong Kong police arrest 7 for alleged links to transnational money-laundering syndicate

• Officers join forces with Singaporean police and Interpol to apprehend suspects behind rising technical support scam cases in city

Hong Kong police have arrested seven individuals allegedly involved in a transnational money-laundering syndicate running technical support scams following a joint operation with officers from Singapore and Interpol.

The syndicate was involved in laundering more than HK$100 million (US$12.83 million), Hong Kong police said on Friday. They arrested a mastermind, three syndicate members and three money mules, aged between 33 and 43, on suspicion of conspiring to launder money.

The operation code-named “Blackbrain” was launched on August 9, after police found a suspected mule bank account holder received about US$120,000 in overseas deposits within one day.

Officers immediately notified Interpol and the Singaporean police, and later discovered that one of the wire transfers was from a victim of an investment scam in the United States, according to the Hong Kong side.

Singaporean police said the tech-support scam syndicate targeted unsuspecting victims in many jurisdictions, including the city state. The criminal proceeds were then laundered through Hong Kong.

“The false screen pop-up was a ruse to phish for the victim’s internet banking credentials, and the abuse of the remote access software allowed scammers to remotely control the victim’s computer to make unauthorised banking transactions,” said David Chew, director of the commercial affairs department of the Singaporean police.

Hong Kong police raided three premises in the city during the operation this week.

The suspects had used their accounts to receive more than HK$33 million from scam victims in Singapore and HK$5.2 million from local victims.

Police seized about HK$300,000 in cash and over 60 bank cards during the operation. Another HK$1.3 million of crime proceeds were successfully recovered.

Singapore police also arrested a 23-year-old man for his alleged involvement.

He was suspected to have handed over his bank account to a syndicate related to the group of scammers.

Five of the suspects have been charged with a total of three money-laundering offences, and the cases were brought before Eastern Court this week.

Police had earlier warned that technical support scams, rampant in the West and Singapore, had been getting more common in Hong Kong.

Victims unwittingly divulged their bank details after being deceived into believing their computers had been infected by viruses.

Fraudsters posing as tech support staff and law enforcement officers mostly communicated in English and targeted foreigners living in Hong Kong or residents proficient in the language.

Singaporean police had received 185 reports related to such scams in the first seven months this year, resulting in losses of at least S$17.9 million (US$13.6 million).

Hong Kong police have reminded the public that using personal bank accounts or providing accounts to others for illegal purposes may constitute a money-laundering offence.

If found guilty, the maximum penalty is 14 years’ imprisonment and a fine of HK$5 million.

Hong Kong Free Press HKFP

Hong Kong news, breaking updates – 100% Independent, impartial, non-profit

Hong Kong’s Ming Pao newspaper urges columnists to be ‘prudent’ and ‘law-abiding,’ or else ‘crisis may come’

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The chief editor of Hong Kong’s Ming Pao has urged columnists to be “prudent” and “law-abiding” when writing for the newspaper, warning that if they were not, “crisis may come.”

Barrister and Ming Pao columnist Senia Ng on Thursday posted a note sent by chief editor Lau Chung-yung on social media. “For Ming Pao to conduct itself and its mission in Hong Kong’s new era, as well as to exercise the role of the fourth estate, is a heavy responsibility and a long path that requires extra caution,” the Chinese memo read.

Two sources confirmed to HKFP that they had also received the note from Lau, who also wrote: “[We] sincerely plead for your help to be more prudent when commenting on current affairs from now on.”

“Comments must be based on accurate facts. They should be law-abiding and measured. Otherwise it is difficult to say whether one day crisis may come,” Lau continued.

“Words cannot fully express my ideas. I hope everyone will continue to bear with us, as you always have.”

Ming Pao has not yet responded to HKFP’s request for comment.

The message came days after security chief Chris Tang made reference to overseas columnists who he said had “deliberately misinterpreted government policies or official speeches and misled readers.”

“If [the media] condones such writers and their biased essays, it will have corrupted society and created divisions,” Tang said in Cantonese during an event organised by newsweekly Yazhou Zhoukan, which is owned by Ming Pao’s parent company Media Chinese International Limited.

“Simply placing a remark beneath the column saying it did not intend to incite hatred of the government does not waive an editors’ responsibility to ensure the publication is fair, objective, and unbiased,” Tang added.

Tang did not name any publications or columnists in his speech.

Ming Pao was among several media outlets to place a disclaimer in its op-ed section after two outlets, Apple Daily and Stand News, were raided and prosecuted in 2021 over alleged sedition. Introduced in early 2022, it reads: “If a commentary published by this newspaper raises criticism, it is meant to point out mistakes or flaws in the system, policy, or measure.”

“The purpose is to facilitate the correction or elimination of such mistakes or flaws … there is absolutely no intention to incite hatred, disaffection or enmity against the government or other communities,” the Chinese disclaimer continues.

Last month, a Ming Pao op-ed was slammed by the government for being “unfounded and misleading.” Written by legal scholar Johannes Chan, it argued that recent legislation denying national security offenders early release from prison may infringe on inmates’ human rights.

The Correctional Services Department said Chan’s essay was “factually inaccurate,” as early release “has never been a guaranteed right of [prisoners] under the laws of Hong Kong.”

Chan’s essay “misled readers to believe that if a [prisoner] is not granted remission … it would be tantamount to receiving a heavier sentence and a breach of the Hong Kong Bill of Rights,” the department said in a statement .

Chan, the former dean of the University of Hong Kong’s law faculty, is currently based in the UK. He was a regular contributor to a Ming Pao column on legal issues but has yet to publish an op-ed in the paper since the Correctional Services Department’s criticism.

Last May, Ming Pao suspended the comic strip of prominent political cartoonist Wong Kei-kwan , better known as “Zunzi,” who had been publishing satirical takes on current affairs and public policies in the city since 1983 in the newspaper.

The move came after multiple officials, including chief secretary Eric Chan , Tang , and home and youth affairs chief Alice Mak , condemned Zunzi’s satires.

Press freedom

Hong Kong has plummeted in international press freedom indices since the onset of the security law . Watchdogs cite the arrest of journalists, raids on newsrooms and the closure of around 10 media outlets including Apple Daily , Stand News and Citizen News . Over 1,000 journalists have lost their jobs, whilst many have emigrated . Meanwhile, the city’s government-funded broadcaster RTHK has adopted new editorial guidelines , purged its archives and axed news and satirical shows.

See also:  Explainer: Hong Kong’s press freedom under the national security law

In 2022, Chief Executive John Lee said press freedom was “in the pocket” of Hongkongers but “nobody is above the law.” Although he has told the press to “ tell a good Hong Kong story ,” government departments have been reluctant to respond to story pitches .

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Hans Tse Reporter

Hans Tse is a reporter at Hong Kong Free Press with an interest in local politics, academia, and media transformation. He was previously a social science researcher, with writing published in the Social Movement Studies and Social Transformation of Chinese Societies journals. He holds an M.Phil in communication from the Chinese University of Hong Kong.

Before joining HKFP, he also worked as a freelance reporter for Initium between 2019 and 2021, where he covered the height - and aftermath - of the 2019 protests, as well as the sweeping national security law imposed by Beijing in 2020.

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