Protesters and police are descending into totalitarianism. Hong Kong needs an Athenian moment to save itself

Police and the protesters appear trapped, unable to negotiate and pushing each other to greater extremes

To protect its freedoms, Hong Kong’s individual communities and institutions should put issues affecting them to a vote – and the majority should not be held hostage by the few

Clifton R. Emery

Published: 9:00am, 19 Nov, 2019

Updated: 9:12am, 19 Nov, 2019

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Clifton R. Emery

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Dr Clifton R. Emery is an associate professor of social work and social administration at the University of Hong Kong. His research and practice embrace populations made vulnerable by domestic violence, child maltreatment, human trafficking, and refugee status. Recent research examines relationships between totalitarian-style control and violence. He also does some North Korean human rights work.

Protesters and police are descending into totalitarianism. Hong Kong needs an Athenian moment to save itself

Police and the protesters appear trapped, unable to negotiate and pushing each other to greater extremes To protect its freedoms, Hong Kong’s individual communities and institutions should put issues affecting them to a vote – and the majority should not be held hostage by the few

Police and the protesters appear trapped, unable to negotiate and pushing each other to greater extremes

To protect its freedoms, Hong Kong’s individual communities and institutions should put issues affecting them to a vote – and the majority should not be held hostage by the few