Hundreds of protesters gathered at government offices in Shenzhen on November 27, demanding updates on an investigation into China Evergrande’s collapse, marking a significant protest in the country since 2022. The protests were organized to express grievances without antagonizing authorities, reaching various government offices en masse. Citizens expressed frustration, particularly with government policies, reflecting a trend of smaller-scale protests reported by mainstream media from July to September this year.
Protests Across Mainland China
Mainland China witnessed 826 protests, with 57% organized group actions focusing on economic issues from July to September. Various workers, including construction, textile, and garment workers, voiced discontent against property management companies’ perceived abuses. These protests highlight citizens’ concerns about government policies and social management practices.
Diverse Forms of Protest
Protests in mainland China take various forms and are not pre-approved by police. Despite the risks, these demonstrations have led to policy changes, such as the lifting of Covid restrictions and compensating bank depositors after a fraud scandal. However, authorities have investigated and detained individuals involved in these protests, emphasizing the risks associated with challenging the status quo.
Contrast in Hong Kong
In contrast, authorities in Hong Kong have generally banned protests targeting the government, instead approving applications for public meetings and processions supporting local officials or demonstrating against foreign actions. The shift in approval rates post-Covid indicates a limitation on authentic protests addressing local issues, raising questions about the difference in practicing freedoms of assembly and demonstration between mainland China and Hong Kong.
Amidst calls for relaxing bans on public protests in Hong Kong, the debate continues on the importance of diverse avenues for expressing opinions and concerns. Encouraging applications for demonstrations on a wider range of issues could foster dialogue and address public grievances effectively. As citizens navigate the complexities of expressing dissent while respecting others’ rights, the role of protest in shaping governance and advocating for human rights remains crucial in both mainland China and Hong Kong.
