Why all the fuss about Hong Kong independence?
Explain This takes a closer look at topical issues or news of the moment and presents it in easy-to-understand summaries
Banners and posters advocating Hong Kong independence were put up initially at Chinese University and then five other institutions, reigniting debate about whether the city’s separation from China can be discussed as an academic topic at places of learning. “Hong Kong independence” is not only an academic issue. It has in recent years evolved into a radical localist movement that has caught the attention as well as fury of local officials and the top echelon of the Chinese state leadership.
How did it all start?
It was not until 2011 that the city’s independence became a hot topic, when former Lingnan University associate professor Dr Horace Chin Wan-kan published his iconic book Hong Kong as a City State and inspired localist groups in the city.
Who are the key activists and what have they done?
Hong Kong Indigenous leaders Edward Leung Tin-kei and Ray Wong Toi-yeung were regarded by young activists as iconic faces of the pro-independence movement. The pair face charges of rioting and incitement to riot over their alleged role in the Mong Kok unrest last year.