Hong Kong Free Press has received a nomination for a prestigious journalistic independence award at the 2024 Reporters Without Borders (RSF) Press Freedom Awards. Despite challenges such as the implementation of the National Security Law and the closure of many media outlets in Hong Kong, HKFP has continued to cover topics that are considered sensitive by Beijing, such as human rights, politics, and trials of political figures, according to the free expression NGO.
The ceremony will take place on December 4 at the National Museum of Women in the Arts in Washington DC. A total of 18 journalists and journalist teams, two media outlets, and five photojournalists from 22 countries have been shortlisted for various awards to recognize their significant contributions to the defense and promotion of press freedom worldwide.
Among the nominees in the independence category are individuals from countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, India, Russia, and Tajikistan. HKFP stands out for its impartial stance, transparent funding, and balanced coverage, guided by a Trust Project-backed Ethics Code and Corrections Policy. Launched in 2015 amidst concerns about press freedom in Hong Kong, HKFP relies on the support of a small group of monthly donors and the dedication of its eight journalists.
In addition to the nomination for the journalistic independence award at the 2024 RSF Press Freedom Awards, HKFP has received recognition and accolades in the past, including being shortlisted or winning journalism-related prizes in previous years. The continued success of HKFP highlights the importance of independent journalism in Hong Kong and the dedication of its team to upholding press freedom.
Supporting HKFP through monthly contributions from nearly 1,000 donors helps sustain the outlet’s award-winning original reporting and ensures that it remains accessible to all readers. The transparency and accountability of HKFP as a non-profit organization are key factors in maintaining its independence and credibility as a news outlet. By joining the community of monthly donors, individuals can contribute to the preservation of press freedom in Hong Kong and support the vital work of HKFP in providing independent English-language news coverage.
Tom Grundy, the founder of Hong Kong Free Press, established the outlet in 2015 through crowdfunding, making it the city’s first crowdfunded newspaper. With a background in communications and journalism, Tom has been instrumental in managing HKFP’s newsroom and operations, including fundraising, recruitment, compliance, and ethical guidelines. His dedication to promoting press freedom and independent journalism in Hong Kong has been recognized through various awards and nominations for HKFP.
