Hong Kong Protests: The War Rages On

The protests in Hong Kong have entered their second month, sparking major concerns from the local authorities, and leading to criticism from several government quarters.

Anti-government action flared up this morning, Monday 29 July, when protestors gathered on the streets of Hong Kong, creating makeshift barricades whilst wearing masks and carrying umbrellas.

Local police fired tear gas to disperse the gathering crowds, whilst rushing their barricades in riot gear. By mid-day, only minor skirmishes remained.

Chinese authorities have claimed that Western forces are trying to destabilise the region through violent protests.

Yang Guang, spokesperson for the Chineses Cabinet’s Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office, said: “At the end of the day, [the protesters’] intention is to create trouble in Hong Kong, make Hong a problem to China, in order to contain China’s development.”

The demonstrations – consisting largely of students and young workers – began in early June when lawmakers attempted to pass a bill that would allow the government to extradite offenders to China, which critics say would bypass their rights.

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