Hong Kong Denies Entry to AP Photojournalist in Alarming Blow to Press Freedom

September 25, 2024 – China – 

Hong Kong’s government has denied entry and refused a visa renewal for French photojournalist Louise Delmotte, who was working for the Associated Press. Her expulsion marks yet another troubling sign of the shrinking space for press freedom in the once semi-autonomous city. Delmotte had been based in Hong Kong since March 2023 and was widely recognized for her coverage of politically sensitive topics, including the trial of jailed pro-democracy media tycoon Jimmy Lai.

According to reports, Delmotte’s work visa application was rejected without explanation earlier this year. On September 14, she attempted to re-enter Hong Kong as a tourist, a right typically afforded to French passport holders under the visa-free entry policy. However, authorities detained and then deported her upon arrival, refusing to clarify the reasoning behind the action. The lack of transparency surrounding the decision has drawn widespread condemnation from international press freedom organizations.

The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) labeled the move as “arbitrary and retaliatory,” stating that it sends a chilling message to journalists covering sensitive political developments in Hong Kong. The Hong Kong Journalists Association and the Hong Kong Press Photographers Association also criticized the government’s decision, arguing that it undermines the city’s long-standing status as a regional media hub.

Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee defended the immigration department’s authority, stating that all visa decisions are made by the law and on a case-by-case basis. He declined to comment directly on Delmotte’s case, maintaining the government’s position of non-disclosure regarding individual immigration matters.

Delmotte’s case is part of a broader trend in which foreign journalists, particularly those reporting on democratic movements and human rights, face increasing obstacles in Hong Kong. In recent years, several reporters have been denied visas or entry, raising serious concerns about censorship and government control over the media.

As global scrutiny intensifies, Delmotte’s removal underscores the continuing erosion of Hong Kong’s press freedom and the broader implications for journalistic work in the region. Without accountability and transparency, the city risks further alienating itself from international media and undermining its democratic reputation.

Reference – 

https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-09-23/hong-kong-denies-entry-to-french-journalist

Associated Press photojournalist denied entry to Hong Kong after visa renewal rejected

Hong Kong denies work visa to photojournalist Louise Delmotte – Committee to Protect Journalists (cpj.org)