French Photojournalist Denied Entry to Hong Kong Due to Visa Renewal Issue
An award-winning French photojournalist working for Associated Press has been denied entry to Hong Kong months after an extension of her work visa was rejected by the city’s immigration authorities. Louise Delmotte, who has been working for the US news agency’s Hong Kong bureau since March 2023, had her visa renewal denied by authorities earlier this year, HKFP has learned.
In an emailed response on Monday, AP told HKFP that authorities did not give a reason for the denial. “Louise Delmotte is a talented journalist and we are proud of the important work she has done in Hong Kong for The Associated Press,” the news agency said. “AP continues to have a presence in Hong Kong and is working with Louise on next steps,” it added.
Sources told HKFP on Tuesday that Delmotte was also barred from entering Hong Kong as a tourist on September 14 without explanation. She was sent back to France on a plane a few hours after her entry was denied.
Associated Press publishes photos of jailed media mogul Jimmy Lai on August 13, 2023. Photo: Kelly Ho/HKFP. The photographer has won multiple photojournalism awards in the city, including for her exclusive shots of pro-democracy figure Jimmy Lai in a maximum security prison last August. Her photographs of Lai offered a rare glimpse of the tycoon’s life in custody since he was detained in December 2020.
Other notable works by Delmotte include photographs showcasing the city’s Covid-19 quarantine policy and the impact of extreme heat on underprivileged residents. HKFP also learned that the city’s French Consulate had been “in touch” with authorities about Delmotte’s denied entry to the city. French nationals are currently allowed to visit Hong Kong for up to 90 days without a visa.
Subheading 1: Denial of Entry and the Impact on Journalism
The denial of entry to a talented photojournalist like Louise Delmotte raises concerns about the impact on journalism in Hong Kong. The ability of journalists to freely report on events and capture important moments is crucial for upholding press freedom and transparency. When journalists face obstacles like visa denials or entry bans, it not only affects their individual careers but also hampers the free flow of information to the public.
Subheading 2: Government Response and Implications for Press Freedom
The response from the Hong Kong government regarding Delmotte’s entry denial raises questions about the transparency and fairness of immigration policies. The lack of clear reasons provided for the denial, coupled with the growing trend of visa and entry denials for journalists in the city, raises concerns about press freedom and the ability of foreign media to operate in Hong Kong without hindrance.
Chief Executive John Lee’s comments about entry into the city being considered according to prevailing immigration policies and laws may not fully address the underlying issues at play. The need for greater clarity and communication from immigration authorities regarding visa approvals and entry denials is essential to maintain Hong Kong’s reputation as a hub for international media and press freedom.
Subheading 3: Recommendations for Ensuring Press Freedom and Transparency
To address the challenges faced by journalists like Louise Delmotte and uphold press freedom in Hong Kong, several recommendations can be considered. Firstly, the Immigration Department should provide clear guidelines on the types of visitors welcomed to the city, ensuring transparency and reassurance for incoming travelers and foreign talents.
Additionally, increased communication between immigration authorities and the journalism industry can help foster a better understanding of the issues at hand and ensure that journalists are able to report freely without fear of retaliation. Collaboration between relevant stakeholders, including press associations and government agencies, is crucial in maintaining Hong Kong’s reputation as a beacon of press freedom in the region.
Conclusion:
The denial of entry to French photojournalist Louise Delmotte highlights the challenges faced by journalists in Hong Kong and raises important questions about press freedom and transparency in the city. As the government grapples with immigration policies and entry denials, it is essential to prioritize the protection of journalists’ rights and ensure that they can continue to report freely and without fear of reprisal. By fostering greater communication and collaboration between all stakeholders, Hong Kong can uphold its reputation as a global hub for journalism and press freedom.