HK protests upstage China's National Day celebrations
Pro-democracy protests in HK have intensified on China's National Day. The unrest began after China said it would select candidates for the region's next leader in 2017, rather than allowing a democratic election.
Subdued celebrations
Pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong have continued during China's National Day celebrations. Officials warned crowds not to disrupt a flag-raising ceremony in Victoria Harbor, although many booed when the national Anthem was played. Several thousand student protesters staged a silent protest, turning their backs and crossing their hands as the flag went up.
Broken promises
Although tension has long been a part of the relationship between mainland China and Hong Kong, the most recent round of action was sparked by Chinese authorities' announcement that Hong Kong would not be allowed to hold democratic elections to choose its new leader in 2017, as had been promised. Instead Beijing would choose the candidates aiming to become the region's next chief executive.
Swelling support
The celebrations also mark the start of several public holidays across China, so workers who could previously only protest outside working hours will now be free to take part in demonstrations. The "special administrative region" of Hong Kong has operated semi-autonomously from China since being handed back by Britain in 1997. Before this Hong Kong celebrated its own "Liberation Day" in August.
Fragile bonds
Adding further strain, many Hong Kong residents have accused mainland Chinese of traveling to Hong Kong to take advantage of its amenities and less-restrictive rules. In a speech to mark the National Day, China's President Xi Jinping said he would "safeguard" Hong Kong's prosperity and stability. China's government has criticized the protests, although as yet has declined to directly intervene.
Placing blame
Protesters are calling for the resignation of current chief executive Leung Chun-ying, who refused to meet with organizers, calling the action "illegal". The main protest action has centered around Hong Kong's world-renowned financial district, causing many businesses to temporarily close. Student leaders are now threatening to take over government buildings if Leung doesn't step down by Thursday.
Polite protesters
Protesters in the famously tidy city have kept things running smoothly, organizing their own recycling and picking up litter. The action has been nicknamed the "umbrella movement" due to protesters using umbrellas to shield themselves from police using pepper spray. The authorities' reaction has been criticized as overly harsh, although analysts say it is unlikely Chinese troops will be deployed.
Under wraps
China continues to censor news of the unrest, for fear of inspiring similar action on the mainland. Reports say censorship has reached one of the strictest levels ever recorded. Police say at least 70 people have been hurt, while campaign groups have accused Chinese authorities of questioning and detaining dozens of activists. The protests are the biggest threat to Beijing since Tiananmen Square.