Updated 23 October 2019
US Department of State and Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) Travel
Warnings: As of 23 October 2019, there are travel warnings to Hong Kong.
Both the U.S. Consulate General in Hong Kong and Macau and FCO have warnings that
reports suggest a number of protests are likely to take place across Hong Kong and the New
Territories.
Situation:
Hong Kong continues towards its 21st consecutive weekend of protests with several demonstrations and events planned as reported by media. This does not mean that they have been approved by authorities. It is becoming more common for authorities to not approve demonstrations, which makes any events illegal and easier to charge any individuals arrested.
MTR stations continue to experience delays and changes to regular schedules due to protests and the need for repairs from damage from past protests. See LINK for up-to-date station operation announcements.
Wednesday, October 23- 7:30 pm gathering at British Consulate-General in Admiralty in support of motion to give a second citizenship to Honk Kong citizens on Thursday in UK’s House of Lords.
Thursday, October 24- 7 pm in Chater Garden in Central – in support of Catalonia independence protests
Saturday, October 26- 1 pm at Tamar Park in Admiralty – anti-communism and anti-totalitarianism protests 7 pm – location not announced – demonstration organized by healthcare workers
Sunday, October 27 – 4 pm at Kwun Tong Promenade in Kowloon – activists calling
** Any protests that take place without a permit are considered illegal.
Possible Effects:
Likelihood of escalations in actions, protests and demonstrations from both protesters and law enforcement
Disrupted modes of transportation
Increased presence of law enforcement personnel and an increased willingness to use force against protesters
Increases in traffic, especially near protest sites
Roads blocked by protestors with little to no notice
Blockades placed by police beforehand
Protests which have the possibility of turning violent, especially after dark
Increased risk of violence breaking out between opposing protest groups
Mitigating Factors to Apply:
Avoid all protests, demonstrations, and large crowds, which have the possibility of turning violent
Avoid discussing political topics in public or on social media
Exercise caution if unexpectedly in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests.
If you are caught in a blockade:
Remain calm
Do not exit your vehicle
Call the authorities
Emergency Services (police, fire, and medical): 999
British Consulate-General at +(825) 2901 3000
Allow extra time for travel
Monitor local and social media for updates
DISCLAIMER and Hold Harmless
Disclaimer: LSDS gathers information from multiple sources and offers insight and perspective to travelers. Sources cannot be validated for accuracy in every instance. Travelers assume all risk associated with their travel and are responsible for the decisions associated with travel and for their own safety. Users of this reference document agree, to hold harmless LSDS (LLC) its employees and clients associated with any risk or injury incurred during travel.
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