Locations:
- Legislative Council Complex and surrounding areas
- Hong Kong Island
- Kowloon
- New Territories
- Hong Kong Transit Systems
- Hong Kong Shopping Malls
Events:
On Wednesday, May 27, a protest may occur near the Legislative Council Complex in Central, Hong Kong, according to media reports. Protests at other times and locations may also occur.
Protests are likely to disrupt transportation across Hong Kong. MTR stations may be closed and other transportation options may be cancelled on short notice. Over the past year, some MTR stations have closed for extended periods and the MTR network has at times closed earlier than usual.
Since June 2019, large scale and smaller demonstrations have taken place in various areas of Hong Kong, including MTR stations, shopping malls, universities, and at Hong Kong International Airport. While many demonstrations have been peaceful, some have resulted in violent confrontations between protesters and police – or between protesters and people who oppose the demonstrations – leading to serious injuries. Police have used a variety of crowd control measures, including tear gas, pepper spray, rubber bullets, and water cannons. Some protesters have lit fires, built barricades, and thrown Molotov cocktails (petrol bombs). Police have identified and seized weapons and explosive materials linked to ongoing protest activity.
Any protests that take place without a permit are considered illegal.
Protests, which can take place with little or no notice at any time of the week, are likely to continue, and are often accompanied by vandalism and/or violence.
Actions to Take:
- Monitor local media, local transportations sites and apps like MTR Mobile or CitybusNWFB, and the Hong Kong International Airport website for updates.
- Avoid the areas of the demonstrations.
- Observe the Hong Kong government’s social distancing guidelines to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
- Exercise caution if unexpectedly in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests.
- Avoid taking photographs of protesters or police without permission.
- Be aware of your surroundings.
- Keep a low profile.
Assistance:
- U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong & Macau
+852 2841 2211
+852 2523 9011 (after hours)
ACSHK@state.gov - State Department – Consular Affairs
888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444 - Hong Kong Country Information
- Macau Country Information
- Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates
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