The decision comes amid a backdrop of what critics perceive as an erosion of Hong Kong's rule of law and individual rights. Over the past few years, there has been a crackdown on opposition figures and the closure of liberal media outlets. The government's attempt to officially ban the anthem last year was initially refused by the high court, which cited concerns about the potential chilling effect on innocent parties.
However, the recent ruling overturned that decision, with the appeal judge stating that the composer of the song intended it to be a "weapon." The judge argued that the song had been used as an impetus for violent protests in Hong Kong since 2019 and had the power to arouse emotions among certain segments of society.
Under the injunction, the song is prohibited from being broadcast or performed with criminal intent. Additionally, it cannot be disseminated or reproduced on internet-based platforms, although there are exceptions for academic and news activities. This decision has drawn criticism from the United States, which has called it a blow to Hong Kong's international reputation as a city with an independent judiciary that protects the free exchange of information, ideas, and goods.
"Glory to Hong Kong" was clandestinely recorded by an anonymous orchestra and became popular during the 2019 protests. Its defiant lyrics, including the key slogan "Liberate Hong Kong, revolution of our times," resonated with many demonstrators. The song has even been mistakenly played at several international sporting events, causing anger among the Hong Kong government, which has no anthem of its own and uses China's "March of the Volunteers."
The ban on the song follows a campaign by Hong Kong authorities to remove it from various online platforms. Despite their efforts, the song has persisted on the internet, prompting the government to seek legal action. The injunction order was deemed necessary because internet platform operators indicated their willingness to comply with the government's request if there was a court order.
In response to the ruling, industry group Asia Internet Coalition, representing tech giants such as Google and Spotify, expressed concerns about the impact on businesses. They emphasized the importance of a free and open internet for Hong Kong's aspirations to become an international technology and innovation hub.
Shortly after the court's decision, authorities in Beijing voiced their support for the ban, citing the need to safeguard national security. This move adds to previous restrictions imposed on the song, including its ban in Hong Kong schools following the implementation of a controversial national security law in 2020.
The recent ruling comes amid growing concerns about freedom of expression in Hong Kong, particularly following the enactment of additional security laws earlier this year. These laws have been criticized by foreign governments for further undermining rights and free speech in the territory.
Overall, the ban on "Glory to Hong Kong" highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding freedom of speech and expression in Hong Kong. While the government argues that it is necessary for maintaining public order and national security, critics fear that it represents a further erosion of civil liberties in the territory. As the debate continues, the implications of this decision for Hong Kong's international reputation and its aspirations as a global hub for technology and innovation remain to be seen.
