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August 23, 2025 – Hong Kong –
Bloomberg is working to resolve a visa denial for its veteran correspondent in Hong Kong, Rebecca Choong Wilkins, whose renewal application was unexpectedly rejected without explanation by immigration authorities.
Wilkins, a member of Bloomberg’s Asia government and economy reporting team, has covered the region from Hong Kong for six years. Her visa renewal was denied, and no reason was provided, prompting concern from the media community and rights groups alike.
The Foreign Correspondents’ Club (FCC) confirmed Wilkins’ situation, lamenting the opacity and warning that “this decision and the lack of explanation reinforces widespread concerns about the erosion of press freedom in Hong Kong,” which holds protections under the Basic Law and the Bill of Rights.
Bloomberg has expressed its full support for Wilkins and affirmed that it “continue[s] to work through the appropriate avenues to try to resolve the matter.” The company declined to comment on individual visa cases but emphasized its ongoing advocacy on her behalf.
The Hong Kong Immigration Department, when contacted, stated it does not comment on individual cases and reiterated that visa applications must meet eligibility criteria. Authorities denied any implications that the refusal signals press freedom restrictions.
Press freedom advocates have noted that at least nine journalists, including foreign media representatives, have faced visa challenges in Hong Kong since the introduction of the national security law in 2020. This trend has contributed to a steep decline in the city’s global press freedom ranking, placing it 140th out of 180 territories according to Reporters Without Borders.
Wilkins’ case adds to mounting concerns about media freedoms in Hong Kong, where visa rejections have become an increasingly common and worrisome occurrence. Authorities maintain that such measures are based on immigration policy, but critics argue they are part of a broader clampdown on journalistic independence.
As Bloomberg continues to push for a reversal, the international media community remains watchful, viewing the outcome as emblematic of the broader state of press liberties in the city.
References –
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/08/23/world/asia/hong-kong-bloomberg-visa.html
