Pro-democracy camp

Every few generations, Hong Kong transforms itself, evolving from a swampy fishing village to 19th century colonial port, to capitalist outpost and factory after China's 1949 revolution, to 21st century financial center.

Hong Kong media tycoon and outspoken pro-democracy activist Jimmy Lai was sentenced to more jail time on May 28 over his role in an anti-government protest in 2019, as authorities step up a crackdown on dissent in the city.

China's parliament voted on March 11 for sweeping changes to Hong Kong's electoral system-- including powers to veto candidates - as Beijing moves to ensure that only "patriots" run the city following huge pro-democracy rallies.

Britain's foreign minister said he has spoken to "Five Eyes" allies about potentially opening their doors to Hong Kongers if Beijing's plans to impose a national security law on the city sparks an exodus.    

China's parliament approved plans on May 28 to impose a security law on Hong Kong that critics say will eradicate the city's promised freedoms.

The vote by the rubber-stamp National People's Congress came hours after the United States revoked the special status conferred on Hong Kong, paving the way for the territory to be stripped of trading and economic privileges.

A measure calling for "powerful" steps to curb Hong Kong's pro-democracy movement was submitted to China's rubber-stamp parliament on May 22, a move expected to fan fresh protests in the semi-autonomous financial hub.    

Heavy rain fell on tens of thousands of umbrella-toting protesters on Aug. 18 as they marched from a packed park in central Hong Kong, where mass pro-democracy demonstrations have become a regular weekend activity this summer.

Hong Kong leader-elect Carrie Lam said on April 11 there is no room for moves towards independence in the former British colony which she said needs the support of the central government in Beijing to boost economic development over the next five years.