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{{short description|Series of sit-in street protests}}
{{About|occupation protests also known as "Occupy Central"|the advocacy group of a non-violence civil disobedience|Occupy Central with Love and Peace}}
{{About|street protests in Hong Kong also known as the Umbrella Movement|the related advocacy group in Hong Kong|Occupy Central with Love and Peace|the related political movement in Hong Kong|Umbrella Movement}}
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{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2014}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=June 2021}}
{{EngvarB|date=June 2021}}
{{Infobox civil conflict {{Infobox civil conflict
| title = Umbrella Revolution (2014 Hong Kong protests) | title = Umbrella Revolution
| partof = ] and the ]
| image = 29.9.14 Hong Kong protest cellphone vigil.jpg
| image = Umbrella Revolution in Admiralty Night View 20141010.jpg
| image_size = 300px
| caption = A "]" held with mobile phones | caption = The Admiralty protest site on the night of 10 October
| date = 26 September 2014&nbsp;– 15 December 2014 ({{Age in years, months, weeks and days|month1=09|day1=26|year1=2014|month2=12|day2=15|year2=2014}})
| date = {{start date|27 September 2014}}{{spaced ndash}}''ongoing''
| place = ] | place = Hong Kong:
* ] * ] <small>(26 September 2014&nbsp;– 11 December 2014)</small>
* ] <small>(28 September 2014&nbsp;– 15 December 2014)</small>
* ]
* ] <small>(28 September 2014&nbsp;– 25 November 2014)</small>
* ]
* ] <small>(1 October 2014&nbsp;– 3 October 2014)</small>
* ]
| causes = ] decision on ] regarding future Hong Kong ] and ] elections
* ]
| goals = * Genuine universal suffrage<ref>{{cite news|last1=Tai|first1=Benny|title=What Next for Hong Kong?|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2014/12/05/opinion/benny-tai-on-why-occupy-central-should-end.html|access-date=25 December 2014|work=The New York Times|date=4 December 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141205062530/http://www.nytimes.com/2014/12/05/opinion/benny-tai-on-why-occupy-central-should-end.html|url-status=live|archive-date=5 December 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dw.de/hong-kong-protesters-reach-new-heights-with-democracy-banner-on-lion-rock/a-18013822 |title=Hong Kong protesters reach new heights with democracy banner on Lion Rock |publisher=Deutsche Welle |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141209193610/http://www.dw.de/hong-kong-protesters-reach-new-heights-with-democracy-banner-on-lion-rock/a-18013822 |archive-date=9 December 2014 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last1=Sevastopulo |first1=Demetri |title=Hong Kong group launches civil disobedience campaign |url=https://www.cnbc.com/2014/09/27/hong-kong-protests.html |access-date=25 December 2014 |work=Financial Times |publisher=CNBC |date=27 September 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141215110805/http://www.cnbc.com/id/102038462 |archive-date=15 December 2014 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wantchinatimes.com/news-subclass-cnt.aspx?cid=1101&MainCatID=11&id=20141207000081 |title=Beijing fears compromise with Hong Kong protesters: US scholar |date=7 December 2014 |work=Want China Times |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141209053111/http://www.wantchinatimes.com/news-subclass-cnt.aspx?cid=1101&MainCatID=11&id=20141207000081 |archive-date=9 December 2014 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
* ]
* Retraction of the ]
| causes =
* Abolition of ] of ]
| casualties1= {{unbulleted list
* Resignation of Chief Executive ]
| '''Arrests:''' 89
| methods = ], ], ], mobile ]s, ], ]s, ]
| '''Injuries:''' 69
| result = * No changes to the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress decision on 2014 Hong Kong electoral reform and rejection of the reform by Legislative Council (the large rejection result of 8 to 28 was caused by errors of Pro-Beijing camp)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://nz.news.yahoo.com/world/a/28511492/young-hong-kongers-seek-new-path-in-democracy-battle/|title=Young Hong Kongers seek new path in democracy battle|publisher=Yahoo!|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150621102527/https://nz.news.yahoo.com/world/a/28511492/young-hong-kongers-seek-new-path-in-democracy-battle/|archive-date=21 June 2015}}</ref>
*Suffragists launched mobile street protests in various areas after clearance operations
*] and ] rises, leading to further ]
| concessions = The Hong Kong government promises to submit a "New Occupy report" to the Chinese Central government<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.thestandard.com.hk/news_detail.asp?pp_cat=30&art_id=150623&sid=43206834&con_type=3 |title=New Occupy report to Beijing promised |last1=Lau |first1=Kenneth |first2=Kevin |last2=Cheng |date=22 October 2014 |work=The Standard |access-date=17 December 2014 |location=Hong Kong |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141217153402/http://www.thestandard.com.hk/news_detail.asp?pp_cat=30&art_id=150623&sid=43206834&con_type=3 |archive-date=17 December 2014 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
| side1 = ]
;Protesters
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
;Hacking groups
* ]
| side2 = ;Authorities
* {{Flagicon|Hong Kong}} ]
** ]
* {{Flagicon|China}} ]
** {{flagicon image|Flag of the Chinese Communist Party.svg}} ]
;Anti-occupy movement
* ]
* ]
* ]
* Caring Hong Kong Power
* ]
* ]
;Hacking groups
* {{flagicon image|Flag of the People's Liberation Army.svg}} ]<ref>{{Cite web | url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1724533/hong-kong-cyberattacks-spiked-during-occupy-central-academics-study | title=Hong Kong cyber attacks spiked during Occupy Central, academic's study finds| date=26 February 2015}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news | url=https://www.thedailybeast.com/hackers-attack-hong-kong-pro-democracy-websites | title=Hackers Attack Hong Kong Pro-Democracy Websites| newspaper=The Daily Beast| date=18 June 2014| last1=Hong| first1=Brendon}}</ref>
;]<ref>{{cite news|url=https://time.com/3464206/blue-ribbon-protestors-occupy-hong-kong-china-democracy-triads/ |title=Hong Kong Government Accused of Using Triads to Attack Student Protesters |first=Rishi |last=Iyengar |date=4 October 2014 |newspaper=Time |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150118071526/http://time.com/3464206/blue-ribbon-protestors-occupy-hong-kong-china-democracy-triads/ |archive-date=18 January 2015 |url-status=live }}</ref>
* ]
* ]
| leadfigures1 =
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
| leadfigures2 =
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
| leadfigures3 =
| injuries = 470+ <small>(as of 29 Nov)</small><ref>{{cite web |title=高永文:因佔領而求診逾470宗急症室有壓力 |url=http://hk.apple.nextmedia.com/realtime/news/20141129/53178553 |work=Apple Daily |access-date=15 December 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141207130508/http://hk.apple.nextmedia.com/realtime/news/20141129/53178553 |archive-date=7 December 2014 |url-status=live }}</ref>
| arrests = 955<ref>{{cite web|title=955 arrested for Occupy offences |url=http://www.news.gov.hk/en/categories/law_order/html/2014/12/20141215_160122.shtml |publisher=Government of Hong Kong |access-date=15 December 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141227014559/http://www.news.gov.hk/en/categories/law_order/html/2014/12/20141215_160122.shtml |archive-date=27 December 2014 |url-status=live }}</ref><br /> 75 turned themselves in
| casualties_label = Injuries and arrests
| notes = {{Infobox | subbox = yes
|bodyclass=collapsible
|bodystyle={{Subinfobox bodystyle}}

| abovestyle = background-color:#CEE0F2; font-size:100%; padding-left:3em;
| above = Sites of significant protests
| image ={{Location map+ | Hong Kong urban core
| width = 300
| border = none |float=center
| caption = Legend: <br />] represents the Occupied Area of the Admiralty<br />] represents the occupied area of Causeway Bay<br />] represents the Occupy Area of Mong Kok<br />] represents the Occupied Area of Tsim Sha Tsui
| alt = Sites of significant protests
| places =
{{Location map~ | Hong Kong urban core
| lat_deg = 22.280792
| lon_deg = 114.165578
| mark = Yellow pog.svg
| background = white
| position = top
| label = {{nowrap|]}}
}}
{{Location map~ | Hong Kong urban core
| lat_deg = 22.280792
| lon_deg = 114.163
| mark = Yellow pog.svg
| background = white
| position = bottom
| label = {{nowrap|]}}
}}
{{Location map~ | Hong Kong urban core
| lat_deg = 22.281894
| lon_deg = 114.160824
| mark = Yellow pog.svg
| background = white
|position = left
| label = {{nowrap|]}}
}}
{{Location map~ | Hong Kong urban core
| lat_deg = 22.2791885
| lon_deg = 114.1670685
| mark = Yellow pog.svg
| background = white
| position = right
| label = {{nowrap|]}}
}}
{{Location map~ | Hong Kong urban core
| lat_deg = 22.3192
| lon_deg = 114.1694
| mark = Blue 00ffff pog.svg
| background = white
| label = {{nowrap|]}}
}}
{{Location map~ | Hong Kong urban core
| lat_deg = 22.315
| lon_deg = 114.168
| mark = Blue 00ffff pog.svg
| background = white
| label = {{nowrap|]}}
}}
{{Location map~ | Hong Kong urban core
| lat_deg = 22.280292
| lon_deg = 114.1844441
| mark = Red pog.svg
| background = white
| label = {{nowrap|]}}
}}
{{Location map~ | Hong Kong urban core
| lat_deg = 22.297910
| lon_deg = 114.168872
| mark = Black pog.svg
| position = left
| background = white
| label = {{nowrap|]}}
}}
}}
}} }}
|casualties2= {{unbulleted list
| '''Injuries:''' 12
}} }}
{{Infobox Chinese
|casualties_label= Arrests, injuries, and casualties<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.cnn.com/2014/09/29/world/asia/china-hong-kong-protests/index.html?hpt=wo_c2|title=Hong Kong protesters dig in and brace for possible crackdown|publisher=CNN|date=29 September 2014|accessdate=29 September 2014|author1=Jethro Mullen|author2=Catherine E. Shoichet}}</ref>
| altname = Umbrella Revolution

| t2 = 雨傘革命
| side1 =
| s2 = 雨伞革命
People of Hong Kong (The protest has become fully autonomous with no significant leadership)
| y2 = Yúh saan gaak mihng
| side2 =
| j2 = jyu5 saan3 gaak3 ming6
{{Flagdeco|Hong Kong}} ''']'''
| ci2 = {{IPAc-yue|j|yu|5|-|s|aan|3|-|g|aak|3|-|m|ing|6}}
* ]
| p2 = Yǔsǎn gémìng
* ]
| tp2 = Yǔ-sǎn gé-mìng
| leadfigures1 =
| w2 = {{tone superscript|Yü3-san3 ko2-ming4}}
No (The protest has become fully autonomous with no significant leadership)
| mi2 = {{IPAc-cmn|yu|3|.|s|an|3|-|g|e|2|.|m|ing|4}}
| leadfigures2 = ]<br/><small>(Chief Executive of Hong Kong)</small><br/>]<br/><small>(Chief Secretary for Administration)</small><br/>]<br/><small>(Secretary for Security)</small><br/>]<br/><small>(Commissioner of Police)</small>
| bpmf2 = ㄩˇ ㄙㄢˇ ㄍㄜˊ ㄇㄧㄥˋ
| sl2 = {{tone superscript|Yue5saan3 gaak3ming6}}
| altname3 = Umbrella Movement
| t3 = 雨傘運動
| s3 = 雨伞运动
| y3 = Yúh saan wahn duhng
| j3 = jyu5 saan3 wan6 dung6
| ci3 = {{IPAc-yue|j|yu|5|-|s|aan|3|-|w|an|6|-|d|ung|6}}
| p3 = Yǔsǎn yùndòng
| tp3 = Yǔ-sǎn yùn-dòng
| w3 = {{tone superscript|Yü3-san3 yün4-tung4}}
| mi3 = {{IPAc-cmn|yu|3|.|s|an|3|-|yun|4|.|d|ong|4}}
| bpmf3 = ㄩˇ ㄙㄢˇ ㄩㄣˋ ㄉㄨㄥˋ
| sl3 = {{tone superscript|Yue5saan3 wan6dung6}}
| altname4 = Occupy Movement
| t4 = 佔領行動
| s4 = 占领行动
| y4 = Jim líhng hàhng duhng
| j4 = zim6 ling5 hang4 dung6
| ci4 = {{IPAc-yue|z|im|6|-|l|ing|5|-|h|ang|4|-|d|ung|6}}
| p4 = Zhànlǐng xíngdòng
| tp4 = Jhàn-lǐng síng-dòng
| w4 = {{tone superscript|Chan4-ling3 hsing2-tung4}}
| mi4 = {{IPAc-cmn|zh|an|4|.|l|ing|3|-|x|ing|2|.|d|ong|4}}
| bpmf4 = ㄓㄢˋ ㄌㄧㄥˇ ㄒㄧㄥˊ ㄉㄨㄥˋ
| sl4 = {{tone superscript|Zim3ling5 hang4dung6}}
}} }}
{{Chinese democracy movement}}
A series of ] ]s, often called the '''Umbrella Revolution''' and sometimes used interchangeably with '''Umbrella Movement''', or '''Occupy Movement''', occurred in Hong Kong from 26 September to 15 December 2014.<ref name=briefing>{{cite news|last1=Kaiman|first1=Jonathan|title=Hong Kong's umbrella revolution – the Guardian briefing|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/sep/30/-sp-hong-kong-umbrella-revolution-pro-democracy-protests|newspaper=The Guardian|access-date=7 March 2015|date=30 September 2014}}</ref><ref name=6questions>{{cite magazine|last1=Iyengar|first1=Rishi|title=6 Questions You Might Have About Hong Kong's Umbrella Revolution|url=https://time.com/3471366/hong-kong-umbrella-revolution-occupy-central-democracy-explainer-6-questions/|magazine=Time|access-date=7 March 2015}}</ref>


The protests began after the ] (NPCSC) issued a ] regarding ]. The decision was widely seen to be highly restrictive, and tantamount to the ] (CCP)'s pre-screening of the candidates for the ].<ref name="Cheung">{{cite news |last=Cheung |first=Tony |date=31 August 2014 |title=Hong Kong's candidate nominating system out of balance, says Beijing scholar |newspaper=South China Morning Post |url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1582079/beijing-scholar-says-hong-kongs-candidate-nominating-system-out}}</ref>
In September 2014, pro-democracy advocates in Hong Kong protested outside the government headquarters and occupied several major city intersections soon after the ] (NPCSC) announced its decision on ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.webcitation.org/6Syv4ZiNy|title=全国人民代表大会常务委员会关于香港特别行政区行政长官普选问题和2016年立法会产生办法的决定|accessdate=3 October 2014}}</ref> The NPCSC would require a nomination committee to pre-approve up to three electoral candidates before proceeding to a vote involving the general population. After the election, the Chief Executive-elect would then still need to be formally appointed by the central government before officially taking the post.


Students led a strike against the NPCSC's decision beginning on 22 September 2014, and the ] and ] started protesting outside the ] on 26 September 2014.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-china-29306128 |title=Thousands of Hong Kong students start week-long boycott |work=BBC News|access-date=29 September 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150317190828/http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-china-29306128 |archive-date=17 March 2015 |url-status=live |date=22 September 2014 }}</ref> On 28 September, events developed rapidly. The ] movement announced the beginning of their civil disobedience campaign.<ref name="bbc1">{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-china-29390770 |title=Hong Kong police clear pro-democracy protesters |work=BBC News|access-date=3 October 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141207080209/http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-china-29390770 |archive-date=7 December 2014 |url-status=live |date=27 September 2014 }}</ref> Students and other members of the public demonstrated outside government headquarters, and some began to occupy several major city intersections.<ref name="news.xinhuanet.com">{{cite web|url=http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/china/2014-08/31/c_133609238.htm |title=Full text of NPC decision on universal suffrage for HKSAR chief selection |agency=Xinhua News Agency |date=31 August 2014 |access-date=31 August 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150428015506/http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/china/2014-08/31/c_133609238.htm |archive-date=28 April 2015 |url-status=dead }}</ref> Protesters blocked both east–west arterial routes in northern ] near ]. Police tactics – including the use of ] – and ] attacks on protesters led more citizens to join the protests and to occupy ] and ].<ref name=nyt111 /><ref name=triad/><ref name=wsj1411991105/> The number of protesters peaked at more than 100,000 at any given time, overwhelming the police thus causing containment errors.<ref name=20141009harbourtimes/><ref name=20141031reuters/><ref name=nydn1995397>{{cite web|url=http://www.nydailynews.com/news/world/hsbc-laura-cha-sparks-outrage-comparing-hong-kong-voting-rights-u-s-slaves-article-1.1995397 |title=HSBC's Laura Cha sparks outrage comparing wait for Hong Kong voting rights to that of U.S. slaves |work=Daily News |date=November 2014 |location=New York |access-date=4 November 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141207062751/http://www.nydailynews.com/news/world/hsbc-laura-cha-sparks-outrage-comparing-hong-kong-voting-rights-u-s-slaves-article-1.1995397 |archive-date=7 December 2014 |url-status=live }}</ref>
The ] and ] began protesting outside the government headquarters on 22 September 2014.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-china-29306128|title=Thousands of Hong Kong students start week-long boycott|publisher=BBC News|accessdate=29 September 2014}}</ref> On the evening of 26 September, several hundred demonstrators breached a security barrier and entered the forecourt of the ], which has been barred from public entry since July 2014. Officers cordoned off protesters within the courtyard and restricted their movement overnight, eventually removing them by force the next day, including student leader Joshua Wong, who was temporarily detained.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-china-29378961|title=Hong Kong democracy protesters enter government complex|publisher=BBC News|accessdate=3 October 2014}}</ref> ] announced that they would begin their civil disobedience campaign immediately.<ref name="bbc1">{{cite web|url=http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-china-29390770|title=Hong Kong police clear pro-democracy protesters|publisher=BBC News|accessdate=3 October 2014}}</ref>


Government officials in Hong Kong and in Beijing denounced the occupation as "illegal" and a "violation of the rule of law", and ] and officials claimed repeatedly that the West had played an "instigating" role in the protests, and warned of "deaths and injuries and other grave consequences."<ref name=blame/> The protests precipitated a rift in Hong Kong society, and galvanised youth – a previously apolitical section of society – into political activism or heightened awareness of their civil rights and responsibilities. Not only were there fist fights at occupation sites and ] on social media, family members found themselves on different sides of the conflict.<ref name=20141009hksmary/>
Around noon on 28 September, protesters led by ] marched onto ] and proceeded to occupy ] as well, blocking both east-west arterial routes in northern Hong Kong Island. After a several hour standoff, police attempted to disperse crowds with ], ], and ]s, and held signs reading 'Stop Charging or We Use Force'.<ref>{{fr}} , Sébastien Chatelier, Ijsberg Magazine, 1er octobre 2014</ref>


Key areas in Admiralty, Causeway Bay and Mong Kok were occupied and remained closed to traffic for 77 days. Despite numerous incidents of intimidation and violence by triads and thugs, particularly in Mong Kok, and several attempts at clearance by the police, suffragists held their ground for over two months. After the Mong Kok occupation site was cleared with some scuffles on 25 November, Admiralty and Causeway Bay were cleared with no opposition on 11 and 14 December, respectively.
== Nomenclature ==
When ] declared the launch of the campaign, many protesters came out with the purpose of supporting the students.<ref name="SMoM">{{cite web|url=http://hk.apple.nextmedia.com/news/art/20140930/18884407 |title=如何化解還看習近平 |publisher=Apple Daily |date=30 September 2014|accessdate=30 September 2014}}</ref> Furthermore, the occupation phase of the campaign was organised neither by the the ] nor Occupy Central with Love and Peace.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://hk.apple.nextmedia.com/news/art/20140930/18884407 |title=如何化解還看習近平 |work= Apple Daily |language=zh |date=30 September 2014 |accessdate=30 September 2014}}</ref> The term "Occupy Central" is used byPeople's Republic of China government and pro-mainland China advocates.


The Hong Kong government's use of the police and courts to resolve political issues led to accusations that these institutions had been turned into political tools, thereby compromising the police and judicial system in the territory and eroding the ] in favour of "rule by law".<ref name=chinaworker>{{cite web|url=http://chinaworker.info/en/2014/10/01/8245/ |title=Hong Kong: Massive anti-government protests after attempted police crackdown |work=chinaworker.info |date=30 September 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141130111050/http://chinaworker.info/en/2014/10/01/8245/ |archive-date=30 November 2014 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=20141215bspectator>{{cite web|url=http://www.businessspectator.com.au/article/2014/12/15/china/mixed-legacy-hong-kongs-umbrella-movement |title=Mixed legacy for Hong Kong's Umbrella Movement |work=Business Spectator |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150227095545/http://www.businessspectator.com.au/article/2014/12/15/china/mixed-legacy-hong-kongs-umbrella-movement |archive-date=27 February 2015 |url-status=live |date=15 December 2014 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.businessinsider.com/afp-hong-kong-police-charge-leaves-protesters-injured-2014-10 |title=Hong Kong police charge leaves protesters injured |author=Laura Mannering |date=18 October 2014 |work=Business Insider |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150227092621/http://www.businessinsider.com/afp-hong-kong-police-charge-leaves-protesters-injured-2014-10 |archive-date=27 February 2015 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=20141209latimes>{{cite web|url=https://www.latimes.com/world/asia/la-fg-hong-kong-protests-20141209-story.html |author=Julie Makinen |title=Hong Kong police to remove protesters from streets after court order |work=Los Angeles Times |date=9 December 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150219134232/http://www.latimes.com/world/asia/la-fg-hong-kong-protests-20141209-story.html |archive-date=19 February 2015 |url-status=live }}</ref> At times violent police action during the occupation was widely perceived to have damaged the reputation of what was once recognised as one of the most efficient, honest and impartial police forces in the ] region.<ref name=wsj1412398431>{{cite web|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/hong-kong-polices-use-of-tear-gas-during-protests-hurts-reputation-of-asias-finest-1412398431|title=Hong Kong Police's Use of Tear Gas During Protests Hurts Reputation of 'Asia's Finest'|author1=Te-Ping Chen |author2=Lorraine Luk |author3=Prudence Ho |date=4 October 2014|work=The Wall Street Journal}}</ref> The protests ended without any political concessions from the government, but instead triggered rhetoric from ] ] and mainland officials about rule of law and patriotism, and an assault on academic freedoms and civil liberties of activists.<ref name=20141215bspectator/><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2015-01-19/hong-kong-creates-cadets-modeled-after-pla-china-daily-says|title=Hong Kong Creates Cadets Modeled After PLA, China Daily Says|author =Hwee Ann Tan|date=19 January 2015|publisher=Bloomberg L.P.}}</ref><ref name=20150213hks>Lau, Kenneth (13 February 2015). {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150213102502/http://www.thestandard.com.hk/news_detail.asp?we_cat=11&art_id=154279&sid=43887756&con_type=3&d_str=20150213&fc=8 |date=13 February 2015 }}. ''The Standard''.</ref><ref name="nextmedia.com">{{cite web|url=http://hk.apple.nextmedia.com/realtime/news/20150212/53429851 |title=傳政府阻港大陳文敏升職 羅范:點會重蹈覆轍 |work=Apple Daily |language=zh |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150214081457/http://hk.apple.nextmedia.com/realtime/news/20150212/53429851 |archive-date=14 February 2015 |url-status=live }}</ref>
The name '''Umbrella Revolution''' was coined by ]er Adam Cotton on ] on 26 September to describe the 2014 Hong Kong protests, and was widely repeated by Western media to describe the large number of protesters who brought umbrellas in order to defend themselves from pepper spray and tear gas.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.slate.fr/story/92747/hong-kong-umbrellarevolution-hashtag|title=Hong Kong: #umbrellarevolution, anatomie d'un hashtag|publisher=Slate.fr|accessdate=3 October 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.tnp.sg/news/hk-police-surprise-protesters-tear-gas|title=HK police surprise protesters with tear gas|work=The New Paper|accessdate=3 October 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/asia/hong-kong-protests-in-pictures-the-umbrella-revolution-9761617.html|title=Hong Kong protests in pictures: The 'Umbrella Revolution'|work=The Independent|accessdate=3 October 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/09/29/hong-kong_n_5899116.html|title='Umbrella Revolution' Protests Spread In Hong Kong|date=29 September 2014|work=The Huffington Post|accessdate=3 October 2014}}</ref><ref></ref>


== Background == == Background ==
{{main|2014 Hong Kong electoral reform}} {{main|Democratic development in Hong Kong|2014 Hong Kong electoral reform}}
In the ] of 1984, the governments of the ] and ] agreed Hong Kong would ] in July 1997 and stated the basic policies under which the city would be governed after the handover. Under the principle of "]", Hong Kong would enjoy "a high degree of autonomy, except in foreign and defence affairs" for 50 years after the transfer of sovereignty.<ref name=BBCBackground>{{cite web|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-china-27921954|publisher=BBC|title=Hong Kong's democracy debate|date=23 September 2014|accessdate=28 September 2014}}</ref> Annex I of the treaty states the Hong Kong's leader, the ], would eventually be selected by election or through consultations and the legislature would be chosen through elections.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.cmab.gov.hk/en/issues/jd3.htm#con|title=The Joint Declaration – ANNEX I|work=Constitutional and Mainland Affairs Bureau}}</ref>


=== Political background ===
The ] was drafted in accordance with the Joint Declaration and details how the former British ] would be governed. ] as practiced on the mainland would not be extended to Hong Kong. Instead, the territory would continue its previous ] system and way of life for a period of 50 years after 1997. Hong Kong would retain responsibility for its own domestic affairs including, but not limited to, the ] and ], ] and ], ], ], and ].<ref name=BBCBackground /> Articles 45 and 68 of this "mini-constitution" prescribed that the Chief Executive would eventually be elected through universal suffrage.
As a result of negotiations and the ] between China and Britain, Hong Kong was ] and became its first ] on 1 July 1997, under the principle of "]". Hong Kong has a different political system from ]. Hong Kong's ] functions under the ] framework.<ref name="BasicLawC4S4">{{cite web|url=http://www.basiclaw.gov.hk/en/basiclawtext/chapter_4.html#section_4 |title=Basic Law, Chapter IV, Section 4 |publisher=Basic Law Promotion Steering Committee |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141230190055/http://www.basiclaw.gov.hk/en/basiclawtext/chapter_4.html |archive-date=30 December 2014 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="RusellP">{{cite book|last1=Russell|first1=Peter H.|first2=David M.|last2=O'Brien|title=Judicial Independence in the Age of Democracy: Critical Perspectives from around the World|year=2001|publisher=]|isbn=978-0-8139-2016-0|page=|url=https://archive.org/details/judicia_xxx_2001_00_3450/page/306}}</ref> The ], the constitutional document drafted by the Chinese side before the handover based on the terms enshrined in the ],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.parliament.uk/business/committees/committees-a-z/commons-select/foreign-affairs-committee/news/hong-kong-tor/|title=The UK's relations with Hong Kong: 30 years after Joint Declaration|publisher=UK Parliament}}</ref> governs its ], and stipulates that Hong Kong shall have a high degree of autonomy in all matters except foreign relations and military defence.<ref name="Ghai">{{cite book|last=Ghai|first=Yash P.|title=Autonomy and Ethnicity: Negotiating Competing Claims in Multi-ethnic States|url=https://archive.org/details/autonomyethnicit00ghai|url-access=limited|year=2000|publisher=]|isbn=978-0-521-78642-3|pages=–97}}</ref> The declaration stipulates that the region maintain its capitalist economic system and guarantees the rights and freedoms of its people for at least 50 years after the 1997 handover. The guarantees over the territory's autonomy and the individual rights and freedoms are enshrined in the ], which outlines the system of governance of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, but which is subject to the interpretation of the ] (NPCSC).<ref name="BasicLawC8">{{cite web|url=http://www.basiclaw.gov.hk/en/basiclawtext/chapter_8.html|title=Basic Law, Chapter VIII|publisher=Basic Law Promotion Steering Committee|access-date=10 November 2009|archive-date=8 December 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091208080505/http://www.basiclaw.gov.hk/en/basiclawtext/chapter_8.html|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="ChenWenmin">{{cite book|last1=Chen|first1=Wenmin|first2=H. L.|last2=Fu|first3=Yash P.|last3=Ghai|title=Hong Kong's Constitutional Debate: Conflict Over Interpretation|year=2000|publisher=Hong Kong University Press|isbn=978-962-209-509-0|pages=235–236}}</ref>

The leader of Hong Kong, the ], is currently elected by a 1200-member ], though ] of the Basic Law states that "the ultimate aim is the selection of the Chief Executive by universal suffrage upon nomination by a broadly representative nominating committee in accordance with democratic procedures."<ref name="HKbasicalaw">HK basic law web pdf. "." ''The Basic Law of the Hong Kong Special Administrative region of the People's Republic of China.'' Retrieved 8 January 2007.</ref> A 2007 decision by the Standing Committee opened the possibility of selecting the Chief Executive via universal suffrage in the ],<ref>{{cite book|title=Methods for Selecting the Chief Executive in 2017 and for Forming the Legislative Council in 2016 Consultation Document|author =The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government|year=2013|page=3|url=http://www.legco.gov.hk/yr13-14/english/panels/ca/papers/ca1209-cdoc20131204-e.pdf}}</ref> and the first round of consultations to implement the needed ] ran for five months in early 2014. Chief Executive ] then, per procedure, submitted a report to the Standing Committee inviting them to deliberate whether it is necessary to amend the method of selection of the Chief Executive.<ref>{{cite news|title=LC: Statement by CS on "Consultation Document on the Methods for Selecting the Chief Executive in 2017 and for Forming the Legislative Council in 2016"|url=http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/201312/04/P201312040525.htm|work=Information Services Department}}</ref>

As early as January 2013, legal scholar ] published an article by launching a non-violent civil disobedience of occupying ] if the government's proposal failed to satisfy the "international standards in relation to universal suffrage".<ref name="16/1/13">{{cite web|url=http://www.hkej.com/template/dailynews/jsp/detail.jsp?dnews_id=3609&cat_id=6&title_id=571297&txtSearch=%E6%88%B4%E8%80%80%E5%BB%B7|work=]|title=公民抗命的最大殺傷力武器|access-date=27 March 2013|archive-date=1 April 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200401125739/http://www.hkej.com/template/dailynews/jsp/detail.jsp?dnews_id=3609&cat_id=6&title_id=571297&txtSearch=%E6%88%B4%E8%80%80%E5%BB%B7|url-status=dead}}</ref> A group called the Occupy Central with Love and Peace (OCLP) was formed in March 2013 and held rounds of deliberations on the electoral reform proposals and strategies. In June 2014, the OCLP conducted a "civic referendum" on its own electoral reform proposal in which 792,808 residents, equivalent to over one fifth of the registered electorate, participated.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.elections.gov.hk/legco2016/eng/turnout.html?1507448322993|title=2016 Legislative Council Election|publisher=Electoral Affairs Commission, Hong Kong Government|access-date=8 October 2017}}</ref>

In June 2014, the ] issued a white paper called '']'' claiming "comprehensive jurisdiction" over the territory.<ref>Yung, Chester (10 June 2014). . ''The Wall Street Journal''.</ref> "The high degree of autonomy of the HKSAR is not full autonomy, nor a decentralised power," it said. "It is the power to run local affairs as authorised by the central leadership."<ref name="unofficial referendum Guardian">{{cite news|title=Hong Kong's unofficial pro-democracy referendum irks Beijing|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/jun/25/hong-kong-unofficial-pro-democracy-referendum-beijing|first=Jonathan|last=Kaiman|date=25 June 2014|work=The Guardian}}</ref>


=== Standing Committee decision on electoral reform === === Standing Committee decision on electoral reform ===
{{main|2014 NPCSC Decision on Hong Kong}}
On 31 August 2014, the Tenth Session of the Standing Committee in the Twelfth ] set limits for the ] and ]. While calling for "universal suffrage," the decision imposes the standard that "the Chief Executive shall be a person who loves the country and loves Hong Kong" and requires "the method for selecting the Chief Executive by universal suffrage must provide corresponding institutional safeguards for this purpose." The decision states that for the 2017 Chief Executive election, a nominating committee, similar to the present Election Committee system, be formed to nominate two to three candidates, each of whom must receive the support of more than half of the members of the nominating committee. After popular election of one of the nominated candidates, the Chief Executive-elect "will have to be appointed by the Central People's Government." The process of forming the 2016 Legislative Council would be unchanged, but following the new process for the election of the Chief Executive, a new system to elect the Legislative Council via universal suffrage would be developed with the approval of Beijing.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/china/2014-08/31/c_133609238.htm | title=Full text of NPC decision on universal suffrage for HKSAR chief selection | agency=Xinhua News Agency | date=31 August 2014 | accessdate=31 August 2014}}</ref>
On 31 August 2014, the tenth session of the Standing Committee in the twelfth ] set limits for the ] and ]. While notionally allowing for universal suffrage, the decision imposes the standard that "the Chief Executive shall be a person who loves the country and loves Hong Kong," and stipulates "the method for selecting the Chief Executive by universal suffrage must provide corresponding institutional safeguards for this purpose". The decision states that for the 2017 Chief Executive election, a nominating committee, mirroring the present 1200-member ] be formed to nominate two to three candidates, each of whom must receive the support of more than half of the members of the nominating committee. After popular election of one of the nominated candidates, the Chief Executive-elect "will have to be appointed by the Central People's Government." The process of forming the 2016 Legislative Council would be unchanged, but following the new process for the election of the Chief Executive, a new system to elect the Legislative Council via universal suffrage would be developed with the approval of Beijing.<ref name="news.xinhuanet.com"/>


The ] is set to be the basis for electoral reform crafted by the Legislative Council. Hundreds of suffragists gathered on the night of the Beijing announcement near the government offices to protest the decision.<ref name=20140901NYTrestricts/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ibtimes.com/pro-democracy-protests-erupt-hong-kong-over-controversial-electoral-decision-1675068 |title=Pro-Democracy Protests Erupt in Hong Kong Over Controversial Electoral Decision |date=1 September 2014 |work=International Business Times |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141220160848/http://www.ibtimes.com/pro-democracy-protests-erupt-hong-kong-over-controversial-electoral-decision-1675068 |archive-date=20 December 2014 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
While Li Fei, a deputy secretary general of the Committee, said that the procedure would "protect the broad stability of Hong Kong now and in the future," pro-democracy advocates viewed the decision as a betrayal of the principle of "one person, one vote," as they feared candidates deemed unsuitable by the Beijing authorities would stand no chance of being nominated. The Standing Committee decision is set to be the basis for electoral reform crafted by the Legislative Council, although ] legislative members have already promised to "veto this revolting proposal." In response, ] announced that it would organise ] protests.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.nytimes.com/2014/09/01/world/asia/hong-kong-elections.html | title=China Restricts Voting Reforms for Hong Kong | work=The New York Times | date=31 August 2014 | accessdate=31 August 2014 | author=Buckley, Chris & Forsythe, Michael}}</ref> Simultaneously, the ] and the student pressure group ] staged a coordinated class boycott and organised public rallies and street assemblies.<ref name=globalpost>{{cite web|url=http://www.globalpost.com/dispatch/news/kyodo-news-international/140908/snitch-line-operation-against-school-boycotters-hk|title='Snitch line' in operation against school boycotters in H.K. |work=GlobalPost|accessdate=10 September 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://online.wsj.com/articles/hong-kong-students-to-boycott-classes-if-democracy-demands-arent-met-1408621259|title=Hong Kong Students to Boycott Classes If Democracy Demands Aren't Met |authors= Yung, Chester; Ngai, Edward|date=21 August 2014|work=The Wall Street Journal|accessdate=10 September 2014}}</ref>


In an opinion poll carried out by the Chinese University of Hong Kong between 8 and 15 October 2014, only 36.1% of 802 people surveyed accepted the NPCSC's decision. The acceptance rate rose to 55.6% on the proviso that the HKSAR Government would propose democratising the nominating committee after the planned second phase of public consultation.<ref name=cuhksurvey>{{cite web|url=http://www.com.cuhk.edu.hk/ccpos/images/news/20141022-eng.pdf |title=Public Opinion & Political Development in Hong Kong Survey Results (Press Release) | date=22 October 2014 |access-date=5 September 2016 |publisher=Chinese University of Hong Kong |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141031094743/http://www.com.cuhk.edu.hk/ccpos/images/news/20141022-eng.pdf |archive-date=31 October 2014 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
=== Stated goals by Hong Kong Federation of Students and Scholarism ===


==Events==
* ]
===July 2014===
* Resignation of Chief Executive ]
In an atmosphere of growing discontent,<ref>{{cite news|author=Kelvin Chan |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/world/hong-kong-braces-for-big-democracy-rally-opposing-chinas-limits-on-vote/article19390361/ |title=Hong Kong braces for big democracy rally opposing China's limits on vote |work=The Globe and Mail |date=30 June 2014 |access-date=19 August 2014}}</ref> the ] attracted the biggest numbers in a decade and ended in an overnight sit-in in Central with 5,000 police conducting over 500 arrests.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-07-01/thousands-to-protest-on-anniversary-of-hong-kong-return-to-china.html|title=H.K. Police Clear Protesters After Decade's Biggest Rally|date=2 July 2014|work=Bloomberg|access-date=14 October 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-china-28122434|title=Hong Kong police arrest democracy protesters at sit-in|publisher=BBC|date=2 July 2014}}</ref>
* Withdrawal of the decision by the National People's Congress Standing Committee


===September 2014===
== Class boycott ==
====Initial protests====
]
At a gathering in Hong Kong on 1 September to explain the NPCSC decision of 31 August, deputy secretary general Li Fei said that the procedure would protect the broad stability of Hong Kong now and in the future.<ref name=20140901NYTrestricts/> Pro-democracy advocates said the decision was a betrayal of the principle of "one person, one vote," in that candidates deemed unsuitable by the Beijing authorities would be pre-emptively screened out by the mechanism, a point from which Li did not resile while maintaining that the process was "democratic".<ref name=20140901NYTrestricts/> About 100 suffragists attended the gathering, and some were ejected for heckling.<ref name=20140901NYTrestricts/> Police broke up a group of demonstrators protesting outside the hotel where Li was staying, arresting 19 people for ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ibtimes.com/hong-kong-protesters-agitating-against-chinas-volte-face-arrested-1675406 |title=Hong Kong Protesters Agitating Against China's Volte-Face Arrested |date=2 September 2014 |work=International Business Times |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141220160944/http://www.ibtimes.com/hong-kong-protesters-agitating-against-chinas-volte-face-arrested-1675406 |archive-date=20 December 2014 |url-status=live }}</ref>
{{main|2014 Hong Kong Class Boycott Campaign}}
] organised demonstration outside the Central Government Offices barricade on 13 September 2014. Protesters wearing yellow ribbons and blind-folded with red cloth declared class-boycott on 26 September in response to the wider class-boycott movement.<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://hk.news.yahoo.com/%E5%AD%B8%E6%B0%91%E6%80%9D%E6%BD%AE%E7%99%BC%E5%8B%95926%E4%B8%AD%E5%AD%B8%E7%94%9F%E7%BD%B7%E8%AA%B2-%E5%A4%A9-102700606.html|title=學民思潮發動926中學生罷課一天 |publisher=RTHK|date=13 September 2014|accessdate=24 September 2014}}</ref>


In response to the NPCSC decision, the ] legislators promised to veto the framework for both elections as being inherently undemocratic; Occupy Central with Love and Peace (OCLP) announced that it would organise civil disobedience protests and its three convenors led the Black Banner protest march on 14 September 2014 from Causeway Bay to Central.<ref name=20140901NYTrestricts>{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2014/09/01/world/asia/hong-kong-elections.html |title=China Restricts Voting Reforms for Hong Kong |work=The New York Times |date=31 August 2014 |author1=Buckley, Chris |author2=Forsythe, Michael |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150227110910/http://www.nytimes.com/2014/09/01/world/asia/hong-kong-elections.html?_r=0 |archive-date=27 February 2015 |url-status=live }}</ref>
At around 22:30 on 26 September, up to about 100 protesters deciding to "reclaim" the privatised Civic Square for the public clambered over the fence of the square and tried to tear down the metal barriers around the central flag podium. The police force mobilised on Civic Square and started to physically carry away the protesters two hours afterwards.<ref name="罷課變衝擊 黃之鋒被捕">{{Cite news |url=http://news2.mingpao.com/pns/%E7%BD%B7%E8%AA%B2%E8%AE%8A%E8%A1%9D%E6%93%8A%20%E9%BB%83%E4%B9%8B%E9%8B%92%E8%A2%AB%E6%8D%95-%E8%83%A1%E6%A4%92%E5%99%B4%E9%9C%A7%E5%B0%84%E4%B8%AD%E5%AD%B8%E7%94%9F/web_tc/article/20140927/s00001/1411755553148|title=罷課變衝擊 黃之鋒被捕|work=Ming Pao |language=zh|date=27 September 2014|accessdate=28 September 2014}}</ref><ref>Campbell, Charlie; Barber, Elizabeth (27 Sept. 2014). . ''Time'' </ref> At approximately 01:40 on 28 September, the organisers announced the start of civil disobedience campaign.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.straitstimes.com/news/asia/east-asia/story/hong-kong-occupy-leader-benny-tai-admits-protest-out-control-amid-traffic-|title=Hong Kong 'Occupy' leader Benny Tai admits protest out of control amid traffic paralysis|publisher=|accessdate=3 October 2014}}</ref>


On 13 September 2014, representatives of ], including 17-year-old ], staged a small protest against the NPCSC decision outside the Central Government Offices and announced a class boycott for university students for the week commencing 22 September. ] encouraged students unable to join in to wear a yellow ribbon to signify their support.<ref>{{cite news|newspaper=Young Post|date=22 September 2014|title=Scholarism will organise a one-day class boycott for secondary school students on September 26|url=http://yp.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/90787/scholarism-will-organise-one-day-class-boycott-secondary-school|access-date=12 October 2017}}</ref> The ] (HKFS) (representing tertiary students) and Scholarism mobilised students for the ], beginning with a rally attracting 13,000 students on the Chinese University of Hong Kong campus on the afternoon of 22 September.<ref name=globalpost>{{cite web|url=http://www.globalpost.com/dispatch/news/kyodo-news-international/140908/snitch-line-operation-against-school-boycotters-hk |title='Snitch line' in operation against school boycotters in H.K. |work=GlobalPost |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141007013139/http://www.globalpost.com/dispatch/news/kyodo-news-international/140908/snitch-line-operation-against-school-boycotters-hk |archive-date=7 October 2014 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/hong-kong-students-to-boycott-classes-if-democracy-demands-arent-met-1408621259 |title=Hong Kong Students to Boycott Classes If Democracy Demands Aren't Met |author1=Yung, Chester |author2=Ngai, Edward |date=21 August 2014 |work=The Wall Street Journal |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150627014417/http://www.wsj.com/articles/hong-kong-students-to-boycott-classes-if-democracy-demands-arent-met-1408621259 |archive-date=27 June 2015 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news|newspaper=South China Morning Post|last1=Lam|first1=Jeffie|last2=Cheung|first2=Tony|title=The Boycott Begins: thousands of students stage classroom walkout over Beijing's reform plan|date=22 September 2017}}</ref>
== Chronology ==


]
===26/27 September ===
Scholarism organised a protest gathering by school students at the large ], an integral part of the Government Headquarters complex, applying for permission from the responsible government department to occupy the part from 23 to 26 September. Permission was granted only for the first three days, the fourth day being reserved for a virtually unattended pro-Beijing rally.<ref name="Kong">{{cite book|last=Kong|first=Tsung-gan (pseudonym of Brian Patrick Kern)|title=Umbrella: a Political Tale from Hong Kong|date=2017|publisher=Pema Press|isbn=9780997238532|place=United States}}</ref>{{rp|17}} Then having received a "notice of no objection" from the police to assemble for the 24 hours of 26 September 2014 on the relatively little-used ], the students moved there in their hundreds, blocking traffic near the eastern entrance of the Central Government Offices.<ref name="dbc.hk">{{cite web |url=http://www.dbc.hk/radio2/focus-detail/Id/11079/type/10/%E5%92%8C%E5%B9%B3%E4%BD%94%E4%B8%AD%E6%8C%87%E7%8F%BE%E6%99%82%E6%94%BF%E7%B8%BD%E9%9B%86%E6%9C%83%E5%90%88%E6%B3%95 |title=Letter of No Objection from the Central District Police |publisher=dbc |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150320132816/http://www.dbc.hk/radio2/focus-detail/Id/11079/type/10/%E5%92%8C%E5%B9%B3%E4%BD%94%E4%B8%AD%E6%8C%87%E7%8F%BE%E6%99%82%E6%94%BF%E7%B8%BD%E9%9B%86%E6%9C%83%E5%90%88%E6%B3%95 |archive-date=20 March 2015 |url-status=dead }}</ref> At around 22:30, responding to calls from, first, ], the Convenor of Scholarism, and then ], and led by Wong, up to 100 protesters went to "reclaim" Civic Square, a customarily open but recently closed public access area, by clambering over the perimeter fence.<ref name="Kong" />{{rp|19}}<ref name="BI1">{{cite news|url=http://www.businessinsider.com/joshua-wong-reportedly-arrested-in-hong-kong-2014-9 |title=REPORT: Hong Kong's 17-Year-Old 'Extremist' Student Leader Arrested During Massive Democracy Protest |last=Jacobs |first=Harrison |date=27 September 2014 |work=Business Insider |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150109034818/http://www.businessinsider.com/joshua-wong-reportedly-arrested-in-hong-kong-2014-9 |archive-date=9 January 2015 |url-status=live }}</ref> Wong was almost immediately arrested,<ref name="Kong" />{{rp|20}} as police deployed pepper spray on those entering the square.<ref name="Kong" />{{rp|19}} The police surrounded protesters at the centre and prepared to remove them overnight.<ref name="Joshua Wong">{{Cite news|url=http://news2.mingpao.com/pns/%E7%BD%B7%E8%AA%B2%E8%AE%8A%E8%A1%9D%E6%93%8A%20%E9%BB%83%E4%B9%8B%E9%8B%92%E8%A2%AB%E6%8D%95-%E8%83%A1%E6%A4%92%E5%99%B4%E9%9C%A7%E5%B0%84%E4%B8%AD%E5%AD%B8%E7%94%9F/web_tc/article/20140927/s00001/1411755553148 |trans-title=Class Boycott turned violent, Joshua Wong arrested |script-title=zh:罷課變衝擊 黃之鋒被捕 |work=Ming Pao|language=zh |date=27 September 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140928083939/http://news2.mingpao.com/pns/%E7%BD%B7%E8%AA%B2%E8%AE%8A%E8%A1%9D%E6%93%8A%20%E9%BB%83%E4%B9%8B%E9%8B%92%E8%A2%AB%E6%8D%95-%E8%83%A1%E6%A4%92%E5%99%B4%E9%9C%A7%E5%B0%84%E4%B8%AD%E5%AD%B8%E7%94%9F/web_tc/article/20140927/s00001/1411755553148 |archive-date=28 September 2014 }}</ref><ref>Campbell, Charlie; Barber, Elizabeth (27 September 2014). . ''Time''. from the original on 27 January 2015</ref> Protesters who chose to depart were allowed to do so; the rest were picked off and carried away one by one by groups of four or more police officers.
Having received a Notice of No Objection approving the assembly that day between 00:01 to 23:59, some 100 protesters proceeded to gather in Tim Mei Road in the forecourt at the eastern entrance of the Central Government Offices.<ref name="dbc.hk"/>


By the midnight of 26/27 September, 13 people had been arrested including ]. Wong was held for 46 hours, released by police at 20:30 on 28 September<ref name="Kong" />{{rp|20}} only upon his writ of ] being granted by the High Court.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/world/2014/10/02/joshua-wong-hong-kong-protests/16597653/ |title=Meet the 17-year-old face of Hong Kong's protests |date=2 October 2014 |work=USA Today |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141223175532/http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/world/2014/10/02/joshua-wong-hong-kong-protests/16597653/ |archive-date=23 December 2014 |first1=Calum |last1=MacLeod |first2=Alia E. |last2=Dastagir |url-status=live }}</ref>
====First clearance ====
At 00:45 on 27 September, a large police force was mobilised to surround protesters at the centre of the Civic Square. At first, the police allowed protesters to leave voluntarily if they produced their personal identification documents. For those who refused to leave, each was carried away by at least four police officers. In an interview on 29 September with radio program "On a Clear Day", ] reported that ten police officers carried him away. Protesters in the Square included secondary students and their parents, as well as representatives from student organisations. On the other hand, at 1:20am, the police applied pepper spray to the crowd near the ], with some secondary students injured. A woman in the enclosed square asked to go to the washroom, but her request was declined by the police. ] representatives demanded that a female police officer deal with the issue, to no avail{{Citation needed|date=September 2014}}. She had to urinate in the plaza while other protesters covered her up with an umbrella. From the evening of September until the following midnight, 13 people were arrested including the Convenor of ] ].<ref name="BI1">{{cite news|url=http://www.businessinsider.com/joshua-wong-reportedly-arrested-in-hong-kong-2014-9|title=REPORT: Hong Kong's 17-Year-Old 'Extremist' Student Leader Arrested During Massive Democracy Protest|last=Jacobs|first=Harrison|date=27 September 2014|publisher=Business Insider|accessdate=27 September 2014|location=Hong Kong}}</ref>


At 1:20&nbsp;am (of 27 September), the police used pepper spray on a crowd that had gathered outside the ], another part of the same complex, and some students were injured.
==== Second clearance ====
At 1:30 pm, the police force carried out the second round of clearance during which 48 men and 13 women, aged between 17 and 58, were taken into custody for forcible entry into government premises and unlawful assembly.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://7thspace.com/headlines/488827/police_arrest_61_people_for_unlawful_assembly.html|title=Police arrest 61 people for unlawful assembly|publisher=7thspace|accessdate=3 October 2014 |archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/6T2TYIV6d|archivedate=3 October 2014}}</ref> The charges were later refuted by the media and the organisers as the "government premise" was indeed designated as public open space,<ref></ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nanzao.com/tc/hk/39008/zhan-zhong-zheng-shi-qi-dong-te-shou-reng-wei-fa-yan|title=佔中正式啟動 特首仍未發言|publisher=nanzao|accessdate=3 October 2014}}</ref> and the assembly has been approved by the Central District Police.<ref name="dbc.hk">{{cite web|url=http://www.dbc.hk/radio2/focus-detail/Id/11079/type/10/%E5%92%8C%E5%B9%B3%E4%BD%94%E4%B8%AD%E6%8C%87%E7%8F%BE%E6%99%82%E6%94%BF%E7%B8%BD%E9%9B%86%E6%9C%83%E5%90%88%E6%B3%95|title=Letter of No Objection from the Central District Police|publisher=dbc|accessdate=3 October 2014}}</ref> A 27-year-old man was also arrested for possession of an offensive weapon. All the arrested were detained at the Police College in Wong Chuk Hang. The police spokesman declared the assembly outside the ] at Tim Mei Avenue illegal, and advised citizens against participating in the assembly, passing by or getting close to that area. The arrested demonstrators, including Legislative Councillor Leung Kwok-hung and some HKFS members, were released around 9 pm. However, HKFS representatives Alex Chow Yong-kang and Lester Shum were detained for 30 hours.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thestar.com/news/world/2014/10/02/hong_kong_protest_leaders_who_are_the_people_behind_the_movement.html|title=Hong Kong protest leaders: Who are the people behind the movement?|work=Toronto Star|accessdate=3 October 2014}}</ref> The police later cleared the assembly, arresting a total of 74 people who ranged from 16 to 58 years of age.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://edition.cnn.com/2014/09/28/world/asia/china-hong-kong-students/|title=Hong Kong pro-democracy protesters jam city streets |date=28 September 2014|publisher=CNN|accessdate=3 October 2014}}</ref>


At 1:30&nbsp;pm on 27 September, the police carried out the second round of clearances, and 48 men and 13 women were arrested for forcible entry into government premises and unlawful assembly<ref>{{cite web|url=http://7thspace.com/headlines/488827/police_arrest_61_people_for_unlawful_assembly.html |title=Police arrest 61 people for unlawful assembly |publisher=7thspace |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006093841/http://7thspace.com/headlines/488827/police_arrest_61_people_for_unlawful_assembly.html |archive-date=6 October 2014 |url-status=live }}</ref> and one man was alleged to be carrying an offensive weapon. A police spokesman declared the assembly outside the ] at Tim Mei Avenue illegal, and advised citizens to avoid the area. The arrested demonstrators, including Legislative Councillor Leung Kwok-hung and some HKFS members, were released around 9&nbsp;pm. HKFS representatives Alex Chow and ] were, however, detained for 30 hours.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.thestar.com/news/world/2014/10/02/hong_kong_protest_leaders_who_are_the_people_behind_the_movement.html |title=Hong Kong protest leaders: Who are the people behind the movement? |work=Toronto Star |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141210060359/http://www.thestar.com/news/world/2014/10/02/hong_kong_protest_leaders_who_are_the_people_behind_the_movement.html |archive-date=10 December 2014 |url-status=live }}</ref> The police eventually cleared the assembly, arresting a total of 78 people.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://edition.cnn.com/2014/09/28/world/asia/china-hong-kong-students/ |title=Hong Kong pro-democracy protesters jam city streets |date=28 September 2014 |publisher=CNN |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150118201310/http://edition.cnn.com/2014/09/28/world/asia/china-hong-kong-students |archive-date=18 January 2015 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=scmp-zh20140928>{{cite web |url=http://www.nanzao.com/tc/hk/39008/zhan-zhong-zheng-shi-qi-dong-te-shou-reng-wei-fa-yan |script-title=zh:佔中正式啟動 特首仍未發言 |trans-title=Occupy Central Begins, Chief Executive Silent |work=South China Morning Post |language=zh |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141101220814/http://www.nanzao.com/tc/hk/39008/zhan-zhong-zheng-shi-qi-dong-te-shou-reng-wei-fa-yan |archive-date=1 November 2014 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
==== Bridge blockade ====
At 7:30 pm, ] equipped with long shields shoved off protesters with fences outside ], and also blocked the Tower's exits as well as the footbridge linking it to United Centre. Citizens overlooking on the bridge raised their hands in front of the ]. Authorities then swiftly dispelled people sitting on the ground; some were grabbed by hand and dragged away.


==== Conflicts arose ==== ====Occupy Central====
Occupy Central with Love and Peace had been expected to start their occupation on 1 October, but this was accelerated to capitalise on the mass student presence.<ref name=20140928straits/> At 1:40&nbsp;am on Sunday, 28 September, ], one of the founders of OCLP, announced its commencement at a rally near the ].<ref name=20140928straits>{{cite web|url=http://www.straitstimes.com/news/asia/east-asia/story/hong-kong-occupy-leader-benny-tai-admits-protest-out-control-amid-traffic- |title=Hong Kong 'Occupy' leader Benny Tai admits protest out of control amid traffic paralysis |work=The Straits Times |date=28 September 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141228122902/http://www.straitstimes.com/news/asia/east-asia/story/hong-kong-occupy-leader-benny-tai-admits-protest-out-control-amid-traffic- |archive-date=28 December 2014 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/occupy-central-launches-hong-kong-protest-campaign-1411848966 |title=Occupy Central Launches Hong Kong Protest Campaign |work=The Wall Street Journal |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150111215457/http://www.wsj.com/articles/occupy-central-launches-hong-kong-protest-campaign-1411848966 |archive-date=11 January 2015 |first1=Isabella |last1=Steger |date=27 September 2014 |url-status=live }}</ref>
]
At 9:48 pm, the police raised a red-flag warning at Tim Mei Avenue while protesters demanded reopening of roads. Meanwhile, streams of citizens also started to arrive at the ]. They went there through the footbridge outside Admiralty Centre, and argued with the police regarding road reopening on the downward escalator. Besides, the police repeatedly broadcast the message that Tim Mei Avenue had been blocked due to congestion, and they rearranged their deployment. Chaos persisted, with conflicts breaking out at Tim Mei Avenue, Performing Arts Avenue, Admiralty Centre footbridge and other places.


]
At 10:20 pm, protesters sat down at Performing Arts Avenue, trying to prevent the entry of police vehicles. But the vehicles forced their way in, and protesters immediately rushed to the front to stop them. Police formed a chain to let the cars pass. Amid the chaos, police displayed a yellow flag and the protesters raised their hands in response.
Later that morning, protests escalated as police blocked roads and bridges entering Tim Mei Avenue. Protest leaders urged citizens to come to Admiralty to encircle the police.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://orientaldaily.on.cc/cnt/news/20140929/00176_015.html |script-title=zh:打游擊反包圍攻陷金鐘 |trans-title=Protesters gather at Admiralty |work=Oriental Daily News |language=zh|access-date=29 September 2014}}</ref> Tensions rose at the junction of Tim Mei Avenue and Harcourt Road after the police used pepper spray.


At around 4&nbsp;pm on 28 September 2014, the footpaths of Harcourt Road could no longer contain the large numbers of demonstrators who were streaming to the location in support of those facing police pressure on Tim Mei Avenue. They spilled onto the busy artery in an irresistible surge. Traffic came to an abrupt halt. Occupy Central had begun.<ref>{{cite book|last=Kong|first=Tsung-gan|title=Umbrella; A Political Tale from Hong Kong|date=2017|publisher=Pema Press|place=United States|isbn=9780997238532}}</ref>
At 11 pm, the queue at Tim Mei Avenue extended to ]. Around 700 people gathered on the Admiralty Centre bridge. No road was reopened. Some protesters even started to lie on the ground at Fenwick Pier Street to stop police cars from reaching Tim Mei Avenue. Protesters dressed in orange sitting on fences argued with the police at 10:30 pm. The police later announced the retreat of the defence front, winning a round of applause from protesters.


] interviewed on Lung Wui Rd near Tim Mei Ave, 10.53&nbsp;am 28 September 2014]]
===28 September===
] as police dispersed peaceful demonstrators with tear gas.]]
As night fell, armed riot police advanced from Wan Chai towards Admiralty and unfurled a banner that stated "WARNING, TEAR SMOKE". Seconds later, between 17:58 and 18:01, shots of ] were fired.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/comment/blogs/article/1603783/six-hours-admiralty|title=First night of Occupy Central: My six hours in Admiralty|work=South China Morning Post|access-date=29 September 2014|date=29 September 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://hk.apple.nextmedia.com/realtime/news/20140928/52953973 |title=Police fired at least 3 teargas canisters |work=Apple Daily |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150318235607/http://hk.apple.nextmedia.com/realtime/news/20140928/52953973 |archive-date=18 March 2015 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="South China Morning Post">{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1603350/police-fire-tear-gas-and-baton-charge-thousands-occupy-central|title=Police fire tear gas and baton charge thousands of Occupy Central protesters|work=South China Morning Post|date=28 September 2014 |access-date=29 September 2014}}</ref> Then, the police gave them the above-mentioned message and a different message of "DISPERSE OR WE FIRE" concurrently.<ref> ]. 26 July 2014.</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.appledaily.com.tw/realtimenews/article/new/20140930/479002/|title=博訊:港特首等5人策劃開槍 準備死500人|work=Taiwan Apple Daily|date=30 September 2014}}</ref> At around 19:00,<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=303813343144074&set=vb.186040714921338&type=2&theater|title=19:00 警員在夏慤道出示開槍警告|author=i-Cable News|date=28 September 2014|via=Facebook|language=zh|author-link=i-CABLE News Channel (Hong Kong)}}</ref>{{Primary source inline|date=August 2021}} the police was telling them to "move back (向後褪)" and pointed ] at them.<ref>{{cite web|author=HKG mimi|title=香港警方向市民放催淚彈, 舉起長槍(雷明登870霰彈槍)指向民眾 0:52|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DHg4y_2BSVI&t=52s|via=YouTube|publisher=]|date=29 September 2014|language=zh}}</ref> Around 6 hours later, ] denied ] by the police.<ref> Government of Hong Kong. 29 September 2014.</ref>
]
The heavy-handed policing, including the use of tear gas on peaceful protesters, inspired tens of thousands of citizens to join the protests in Admiralty that night.<ref name=wsj1411991105/><ref name=20141009harbourtimes/><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/world/umbrella-revolution-brings-hong-kong-to-a-halt-in-push-for-democracy/article20823168/ |title='Umbrella Revolution' brings Hong Kong to a halt in push for democracy |work=The Globe and Mail |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150629183636/http://www.cnn.com/2014/10/07/world/asia/hong-kong-police-public-trust/ |archive-date=29 June 2015 |location=Toronto |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref name=20141007cnntrust/><ref name=bbc29405195>{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-china-29405195 |title=Hong Kong: Protesters defiant amid stand-off |work=BBC News|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150221111859/http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-china-29405195 |archive-date=21 February 2015 |url-status=live |date=29 September 2014 }}</ref><ref name=20141009smhwhere>. ''The Sydney Morning Herald'', 9 October 2014.</ref> Containment errors by the police&nbsp;– the closure of Tamar Park and ]&nbsp;– caused a spill-over to other parts of the city, including ], ] and ].<ref name=20141009harbourtimes/><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.straitstimes.com/news/asia/east-asia/story/hong-kong-protest-spreads-new-site-across-harbour-mongkok-kowloon-20140929 |title=Hong Kong protest spreads to new site across harbour, Mongkok in Kowloon |last=Li |first=Xueying |date=29 September 2014 |work=The Straits Times |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150110072958/http://www.straitstimes.com/news/asia/east-asia/story/hong-kong-protest-spreads-new-site-across-harbour-mongkok-kowloon-20140929 |archive-date=10 January 2015 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=20140929telegraphparry/> 3,000 protesters occupied a road in Mong Kok and 1,000 went to Causeway Bay.<ref name=bbc29405195/> The total number of protesters on the streets swelled to 80,000,<ref name=20140929telegraphparry>{{cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/hongkong/11129419/Hong-Kong-protests-spread-as-80000-take-to-streets.html |title=Hong Kong protests spread as 80,000 take to streets |date=29 September 2014 |work=The Daily Telegraph |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150214101228/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/hongkong/11129419/Hong-Kong-protests-spread-as-80000-take-to-streets.html |archive-date=14 February 2015 |location=London |first=Simon |last=Parry |url-status=live }}</ref> at times considerably exceeding 100,000.<ref name=20141031reuters/><ref name=nydn1995397/>


The police confirmed that they fired tear gas 87 times.<ref>] Full coverage (5.19&nbsp;pm)</ref> At least 34 people were injured in that day's protests.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.cnn.com/2014/09/28/world/asia/china-hong-kong-students/ |title=At least 34 injured as police and protesters clash in Hong Kong |publisher=CNN |date=28 September 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150411053615/http://www.cnn.com/2014/09/28/world/asia/china-hong-kong-students |archive-date=11 April 2015 |url-status=live }}</ref> According to police spokesmen, officers exercised "maximum tolerance", and tear gas was used only after protesters refused to disperse and "violently charged".<ref name=20141005latimes>{{cite news|url=https://www.latimes.com/world/asia/la-fg-hong-kong-police-20141005-story.html |title=Hong Kong police: 'We have exercised maximum tolerance' |date=5 October 2014 |work=Los Angeles Times |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141230181402/http://www.latimes.com/world/asia/la-fg-hong-kong-police-20141005-story.html |archive-date=30 December 2014 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-10-09/how-hong-kong-got-caught-off-guard-by-student-protests.html |title=How Tear Gas Attack Ignited Hong Kong Democracy Protests |publisher=Bloomberg |author1=Mehul Srivastava |author2=Jonathan Browning |author3=Natasha Khan |author4=Fion Li |date=9 October 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150518013615/http://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2014-10-09/how-hong-kong-got-caught-off-guard-by-student-protests |archive-date=18 May 2015 |url-status=live }}</ref> The '']'' (SCMP) reported, however, that police officers were seen charging the suffragists.<ref name=20140929SCMPchow>Chow, Vivienne (29 September 2014). . ''South China Morning Post''</ref> The media recalled that last time Hong Kong police used tear gas had been on Korean protesters during the ].<ref name="South China Morning Post" /><ref name=20141005latimes/>
==== Occupy Central started early ====
On 28 September at 1:30am, ], one of the initiators of the ] movement who was at Tim Mei Avenue outside the ], announced the official start of Occupy Central, and that the campaign began right there at the ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://online.wsj.com/articles/occupy-central-launches-hong-kong-protest-campaign-1411848966|title=Occupy Central Launches Hong Kong Protest Campaign|accessdate=29 September 2014}}</ref> This signified the commencement of a movement that had been publicised for 1 year and 8 months.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hkej.com/template/dailynews/jsp/detail.jsp?dnews_id=3609&cat_id=6&title_id=571297&txtSearch=%E6%88%B4%E8%80%80%E5%BB%B7|work=]|title=公民抗命的最大殺傷力武器|accessdate=29 September 2014}}</ref> The two demands of ] were: Immediate withdrawal of the decision on political reform by the National People's Congress Standing Committee, and immediate public consultation on the issue.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://oclp.hk/index.php?route=occupy/eng_detail&eng_id=9|title=OCLP &#124; Manifesto|accessdate=29 September 2014}}</ref> Protesters who came in support of the student-initiated assembly now had doubts about the subsequent ] movement. Supporters believed the widespread success of the assembly made it an excellent occasion to push for ]. Opposers, however, opined that the nature of the student-led campaign had changed.


On 29 September, the police adopted a less aggressive approach, sometimes employing negotiators to urge protesters to leave. 89 protesters were arrested; there were 41 casualties, including 12 police officers.<ref name=wsj1411991105>{{cite news|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/hong-kong-police-use-of-tear-gas-on-pro-democracy-protesters-is-questioned-1411991105 |title=Hong Kong Police Use of Tear Gas on Pro-Democracy Protesters Is Questioned |date=29 September 2014 |work=The Wall Street Journal |access-date=3 October 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150627221940/http://www.wsj.com/articles/hong-kong-police-use-of-tear-gas-on-pro-democracy-protesters-is-questioned-1411991105 |archive-date=27 June 2015 |first=Enda |last=Curran |url-status=live }}</ref> Chief Secretary for Administration, ] announced that the second round of public consultations on political reform, originally planned to be completed by the end of the year, would be postponed.<ref name="wsj-carrielam">"Yung, Chester. ", '']''. 29 September 2014.</ref>
Later that day it was reported that at least 34 people had been injured in that day's protests. The officials also asked the protesters to leave, though not all of them complied.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.cnn.com/2014/09/28/world/asia/china-hong-kong-students/ | title=At least 34 injured as police and protesters clash in Hong Kong | publisher=CNN | date=28 September 2014 | accessdate=28 September 2014}}</ref>


===October 2014===
==== Protesters alliance at Harcourt Road ====
Joshua Wong and several Scholarism members attended the ] flag raising ceremony on 1 October at the ], having undertaken not to shout slogans or make any gestures during the flag raising. Instead, the students faced away from the flag to show their discontent. Then District Councillor ] opened a yellow umbrella in protest inside the reception after the ceremony.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-china-29446266 |title=Paul Zimmerman: 'Why I took umbrella to China National Day in HK' |work=BBC News|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150323205801/http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-china-29446266 |archive-date=23 March 2015 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://news.yahoo.com/photos/hong-kong-lawmaker-paul-zimmerman-talks-media-while-photo-033104464.html |title=Hong Kong lawmaker Paul Zimmerman talks to the media while holding a yellow umbrella, a symbol of the Hong Kong pro-democracy movement, at the reception to mark China's National Day in Hong Kong on October 1, 2014 |date=1 October 2014 |work=Yahoo News |access-date=6 October 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150712121618/http://news.yahoo.com/photos/hong-kong-lawmaker-paul-zimmerman-talks-media-while-photo-033104464.html |archive-date=12 July 2015 |url-status=live }}</ref> Protesters set up a short-lived fourth occupation site at a section of ] in ].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-china-29448338 |title=Hong Kong students vow stronger protests if leader stays |work=BBC News|date=1 October 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150602011129/http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-china-29448338 |archive-date=2 June 2015 |url-status=live }}</ref>
]
On the morning of 29 September, police blocked roads and bridges entering the Tim Mei Avenue assembly. Protest leaders summoned citizens to come to Admiralty to "anti-encircle" the police force <ref>{{cite web|url=http://orientaldaily.on.cc/cnt/news/20140929/00176_015.html |title=打游擊反包圍攻陷金鐘|work=Oriental Daily 東方日報|accessdate=29 September 2014}}</ref>


]
After seeing live broadcast of the students protesting and being surrounded by the police and seeing numerous Facebook posts asking for help, thousands of citizens rushed into ], which is on the opposite side of Harcourt Road and Lung Wui Road. They demanded police to clear the way to the assembly.{{citation needed|date=September 2014}}
By 2 October, activists had almost encircled the Central Government Headquarters.<ref name=20141009harbourtimes>{{cite web|url=http://harbourtimes.com/openpublish/article/hkpf-report-card-occupy-central-term-20141009 |title=HKPF report card: Occupy Central term |work=Harbour Times |date=9 October 2014 |access-date=31 October 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141031072437/http://harbourtimes.com/openpublish/article/hkpf-report-card-occupy-central-term-20141009 |archive-date=31 October 2014 }}</ref><ref>] Full coverage (4.45&nbsp;pm)</ref> Shortly before midnight, the Hong Kong Government responded to an ultimatum demanding universal suffrage with unscreened nominees: Carrie Lam agreed to hold talks with student leaders about political reform at a time to be fixed.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/hong-kong-protesters-consider-escalating-actions-1412229794|title=Hong Kong Leader Offers Talks With Protesters|date=2 October 2014|work=The Wall Street Journal|access-date=4 October 2014|first1=Jason|last1=Chow|first2=Isabella|last2=Steger|first3=Fiona|last3=Law}}</ref>


On 3 October, violence erupted in Mong Kok and Causeway Bay when groups of anti-Occupy Central activists including ] members and locals attacked suffragists while tearing down their tents and barricades.<ref name=nyt111>{{cite news|last1=Buckley|first1=Chris|last2=Ramzy|first2=Austin|last3=Wong|first3=Edward|title=Violence Erupts in Hong Kong as Protesters Are Assaulted|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2014/10/04/world/asia/hong-kong-protests.html|access-date=4 October 2014|work=The New York Times|date=3 October 2014}}</ref><ref name=triad/><ref>] Full coverage (6.05&nbsp;pm)</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=Hong Kong clashes continue in Mong Kok |url=http://edition.cnn.com/video/data/2.0/video/world/2014/10/03/stevens-lok-mong-kok-protests.cnn.html |access-date=3 October 2014 |publisher=CNN |date=3 October 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161008084024/http://edition.cnn.com/videos/world/2014/10/03/stevens-lok-mong-kok-protests.cnn |archive-date=8 October 2016 |url-status=live }}</ref> A student suffered head injuries. Journalists were also attacked.<ref name=nyt111/><ref>] Full coverage (8.50&nbsp;pm)</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20141005/world/Rival-protesters-face-off-in-gritty-Hong-Kong-neighbourhood.538433 |title=Rival protesters face off in gritty Hong Kong neighbourhood |work=The Times |date=5 October 2014 |location=Malta |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150324160531/http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20141005/world/Rival-protesters-face-off-in-gritty-Hong-Kong-neighbourhood.538433 |archive-date=24 March 2015 |url-status=live }}</ref> The ] accused the police of appearing to arrest alleged attackers but releasing them shortly after.<ref>] Full coverage (3.10&nbsp;am)</ref> One legislator accused the government of orchestrating triads to clear the protest sites.<ref name=triad/> It was also reported that triads, as proprietors of many businesses in Mong Kok, had their own motivations to attack the protesters.<ref name=20141009smhwhere/> There were 20 arrests, and 18 people injured, including 6 police officers. Eight of the people arrested had triad backgrounds, but were released on bail.<ref name=triad>{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/oct/04/hong-kong-legislator-accuses-government-triads-against-protesters |title=Hong Kong legislator says government using triads against protesters |newspaper=The Guardian |author=Tania Branigan, David Batty and agencies |date=4 October 2014 |access-date=5 September 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150208034441/http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/oct/04/hong-kong-legislator-accuses-government-triads-against-protesters |archive-date=8 February 2015 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=underworld/> Student leaders blamed the government for the attacks, and halted plans to hold talks with the government.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-china-29477731 |title=Hong Kong protests: Student leaders postpone talks |date=3 October 2014 |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150602012507/http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-china-29477731 |archive-date=2 June 2015 |url-status=live }}</ref>
At 4 pm, police forces started to suppress protesters led by ] at Rodney Street. Meanwhile at the Performing Arts Avenue, protesters broke through Police defence line at Harcourt Road and thousands of protesters entered Harcourt Road and walked back to Admiralty.{{citation needed|date=September 2014}}


On 4 October, counter-protesters wearing blue ribbons marched in support of the police.<ref>] Full coverage (10&nbsp;am)</ref> Patrick Ko of the ] group accused the suffragists of having double standards, and said that if the police had enforced the law, protesters would have already been evicted.<ref>] Full coverage (5.45&nbsp;pm)</ref> The anti-Occupy group ] staged their own rally, at which they announced their support for the use of fire-arms by police and the deployment of the ].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-hongkong-china-idUKKCN0HN04020141004 |title=Hong Kong government may resume on Monday, but protests go on |work=Reuters |author1=Yimou Lee |author2=Twinnie Siu |date=4 October 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150222220735/http://uk.reuters.com/article/2014/10/04/uk-hongkong-china-idUKKCN0HN04020141004 |archive-date=22 February 2015 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
These protesters crossed the road shoulder in order to rescue protesters being suppressed on the other side of the road. Police forces were then "anti-surrounded" and had to retreat. At 4:20 pm, the two units allied on Harcourt Road, which started the on-going occupation of Admiralty.{{citation needed|date=September 2014}}


In the afternoon, Chief Executive CY Leung insisted that government operations and schools affected by the occupation must resume on Monday. Former ] lawmaker ] claimed the occupy campaign was in a "very dangerous situation," and urged them to "sit down and talk, in order to avoid tragedy".<ref>] Full coverage (5.05&nbsp;pm)</ref> The Federation of Students demanded the government explain the previous night's events and said they would continue their occupation of streets.<ref>] Full coverage (4.25&nbsp;pm)</ref> Secretary for Security ] denied accusations against the police, and explained that tear gas had been used in Admiralty but not in Mong Kok because of the difference in geography. Police also claimed that protesters' barricades had prevented reinforcements from arriving on the scene.<ref>] Full coverage (1.15&nbsp;pm)</ref>
The occupation spread from Harcourt Road as evening approached. On the West side, citizens started occupying Cotton Tree Drive, Queensway to Connaught Road Central and ]. On the East side, citizens coming out of ] started gathering on Lockhart Road, Fenwick Street and Fenwick Pier Street.


Democrat legislator ] said that "the government has used organised, orchestrated forces and even triad gangs in attempt to disperse citizens."<ref name=triad/><ref>] Full coverage (2.15&nbsp;pm)</ref> Violent attacks on journalists were strongly condemned by ], the Hong Kong Journalists' Association and local broadcaster ].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2014/10/04/asia-pacific/politics-diplomacy-asia-pacific/hong-kong-protests-turn-violent-rival-camps-square-gritty-mong-kok-neighborhood/#.VDQhv_ldVx8 |title=As Hong Kong protests turn violent, rival camps square off in gritty Mong Kok neighborhood |work=The Japan Times |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141210175008/http://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2014/10/04/asia-pacific/politics-diplomacy-asia-pacific/hong-kong-protests-turn-violent-rival-camps-square-gritty-mong-kok-neighborhood/ |archive-date=10 December 2014 |url-status=live |date=4 October 2014 }}</ref> Three former US consuls general to Hong Kong wrote a letter to the Chief Executive asking him to solve the disputes peacefully.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1609748/former-us-diplomats-warn-hong-kong-erosion-over-crisis-open-letter-cy |title=Former US diplomats warn of Hong Kong 'erosion' over crisis in open letter to CY|work=South China Morning Post|date=4 October 2014|access-date=7 October 2014}}</ref>
====Tear gas fired====
]
Tensions at the juncture of Tim Mei Avenue and Harcourt Road kept rising after several jostles which ended up with the usage of highly concentrated pepper spray. As the sky darkened on Sunday night, the armed riot police advanced gradually from Wanchai toward Admiralty. There were many protesters and spectators standing on the footbridge, and shouts echoed "Run! Riot police are coming! Run!". As the police progressed towards Central and Sheung Wan, a police officer unfurled a black banner that says "WARNING, TEAR SMOKE". At that point, shots of tear gas were fired, and protesters hastily distributed masks and bottles of water amongst themselves.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/comment/blogs/article/1603783/six-hours-admiralty|title=First night of Occupy Central: My six hours in Admiralty|work=South China Morning Post|accessdate=29 September 2014}}</ref> The first few tear gas canisters were fired by armed riot police "anti-surrounded" at around 6 pm on 28 September 2014,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://hk.apple.nextmedia.com/realtime/news/20140928/52953973|title=Police fired at least 3 teargas canisters|work=Apple Daily 蘋果日報|accessdate=29 September 2014}}</ref><ref name="South China Morning Post">{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1603350/police-fire-tear-gas-and-baton-charge-thousands-occupy-central|title=Police fire tear gas and baton charge thousands of Occupy Central protesters|work=South China Morning Post|accessdate=29 September 2014}}</ref> by the end of the day, the police force said they had fired 87 cans of tear gas.<ref name="scmp.com">{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1603762/live-severe-disruption-expected-day-dawns-occupied-hong-kong|title=LIVE REPORT: Crowds grow as city gears up for second night of protests; National Day fireworks cancelled|work=South China Morning Post|accessdate=29 September 2014}}</ref> The tear gas triggered even more anger and more citizens joining.


On 5 October, leading establishment figures sympathetic to the liberal cause, including university heads and politicians, urged the suffragists to leave the streets for their own safety.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1610326/legal-and-political-heavyweights-unite-call-end-protests|title=Legal and political heavyweights unite in call for end to protests|work=South China Morning Post|access-date=12 October 2014|date=5 October 2014}}</ref> The rumoured clearance operation by the police did not occur.<ref name=20141005guardiantania>{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/oct/05/hong-kong-braces-deadline-remove-pro-democracy-protesters |title=Hong Kong protests: civil servants allowed to return to work but activists remain |newspaper=The Guardian |author=Tania Branigan |date=6 October 2014 |access-date=5 September 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141129095749/http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/oct/05/hong-kong-braces-deadline-remove-pro-democracy-protesters |archive-date=29 November 2014 |url-status=live }}</ref> At lunchtime the government offered to hold talks if the protesters cleared the roads. Later that night, the government agreed to guarantee the protesters' safety, and HKFS leader ] announced that he had agreed to begin preparations for talks with Carrie Lam.<ref name=20141005guardiantania/>
Hong Kong police had not used tear gas since the ]. Back then, the Hong Kong public primarily acted as spectators of the saga. Those protests involved officers battling militant South Korean protesters during a World Trade Organisation ministerial conference.<ref name="South China Morning Post" />


On 9 October, the government cancelled the meeting with student leaders that had been scheduled for 10 October.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-china-29554755|title=Hong Kong 'calls off student talks'|work=BBC News|date=9 October 2014|access-date=9 October 2014}}</ref> Carrie Lam explained at a news conference that "We cannot accept the linking of illegal activities to whether or not to talk."<ref name="wp1092014">{{cite news|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/asia_pacific/hong-kong-government-backs-out-of-talks-students-vow-new-protests/2014/10/09/db79d8fe-4fb6-11e4-babe-e91da079cb8a_story.html|title=Hong Kong government backs out of talks; students vow new protests|newspaper=The Washington Post|date=9 October 2014|access-date=9 October 2014|first=Simon|last=Denyer}}</ref> Alex Chow said "I feel like the government is saying that if there are fewer people on the streets, they can cancel the meeting. Students urge people who took part in the civil disobedience to go out on the streets again to occupy."<ref name="wp1092014"/> Pan-democrat legislators threatened to veto non-essential funding applications, potentially disrupting government operations, in support of the suffragists.<ref name=reuters1010/>
Hearing this announcement, hundreds of students considered retreating. Meanwhile in Central, riot police started pushing their defence line towards Admiralty, firing significant amounts of tear gas without warning. Protesters retreated to Admiralty. Tens of thousands of citizens joined in the protest to condemn the firing of tear gas and built up new strongholds in Causeway Bay and Mong Kok, the other two major financial areas of Hong Kong.<ref>{{Cite news|url = http://www.nbcnews.com/storyline/hong-kong-protests/hong-kongs-umbrella-revolution-protesters-refuse-back-down-n214626|title = Hong Kong's 'Umbrella Revolution' Protesters Refuse to Back Down|accessdate = 3 October 2014}}</ref> The tear gas used has been identified by ] as being manufactured by ].<ref name="Hong Kong protesters hit by ‘British-made’ grenades">{{cite web|last1=Coghlan|first1=Tom|title=Hong Kong protesters hit by 'British-made' grenades|url=http://www.thetimes.co.uk/tto/news/world/asia/article4220580.ece|work=The Times|accessdate=29 September 2014}}</ref>


On 10 October, in defiance of police warnings, thousands of protesters, many with tents, returned to the streets.<ref name=reuters1010/> Over a hundred tents were pitched across the eight-lane ] thoroughfare in Admiralty, alongside dozens of food and first-aid marquees. The ranks of protesters continued to swell on the 11th.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-hongkong-china-idUKKCN0I005720141011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160305142629/http://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-hongkong-china-idUKKCN0I005720141011|url-status=dead|archive-date=5 March 2016|title=Pitching tents, Hong Kong democracy protesters dig in for long haul|work=Reuters|author1=Kwok, Donny |author2=Chan, Diana |date=11 October 2014|access-date=5 September 2016 }}</ref>
===29 September===


On 11 October, the student leaders issued an open letter to ] ] ] saying that CY Leung's report to NPCSC on democratic development disregarded public opinion and ignored "Hong Kong people's genuine wishes."<ref name=20141013nytopen>{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2014/10/13/world/asia/hong-kong-protesters-appeal-to-xi-jinping-in-open-letter.html|title=Hong Kong Protesters Appeal to Xi Jinping in Open Letter|work=The New York Times|date=12 October 2014|access-date=12 October 2014|first1=Michael|last1=Forsythe|first2=Alan|last2=Wong}}</ref>
]
With the closure of ] and the use of tear gas in Admiralty, many citizens joined in the protests and spread to other parts of the city, including ], ], ], and universities.<ref>{{Cite news|url = http://www.straitstimes.com/news/asia/east-asia/story/hong-kong-protest-spreads-new-site-across-harbour-mongkok-kowloon-20140929|title = Hong Kong protest spreads to new site across harbour, Mongkok in Kowloon|last = Li|first = Xueying|date = 29 September 2014|accessdate = 29 September 2014|work = The Straits Times}}</ref> At dawn after the night of tear gas, protesters that remained in the occupation area stayed more or less the same. Yet, police had changed their strategy, easing their defence level; some police negotiation cadres were at the occupation areas to negotiate with protesters to urge them to leave. A police spokesperson announced that 87 tear gas canisters were deployed, 89 protesters were arrested, 41 were injured, 12 being police.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://online.wsj.com/articles/hong-kong-police-use-of-tear-gas-on-pro-democracy-protesters-is-questioned-1411991105|title=Hong Kong Police Use of Tear Gas on Pro-Democracy Protesters Is Questioned|date=29 September 2014|work=WSJ|accessdate=3 October 2014}}</ref>


=== 30 September === ====Clearance actions====
At 5.30&nbsp;am on 12 October, police started an operation to remove unmanned barricades in Harcourt Road (Admiralty site) to "reduce the chance of traffic accidents".<ref name=20141013nytopen/> In a pre-recorded TV interview<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.worldjournal.com/view/full_van/25941768/article-梁振英-佔中已失控-可能清場?instance=hotbc|archive-url=https://archive.today/20141012235703/http://www.worldjournal.com/view/full_van/25941768/article-%E6%A2%81%E6%8C%AF%E8%8B%B1-%E4%BD%94%E4%B8%AD%E5%B7%B2%E5%A4%B1%E6%8E%A7-%E5%8F%AF%E8%83%BD%E6%B8%85%E5%A0%B4?instance=hotbc|url-status=dead|archive-date=12 October 2014|script-title=zh:梁振英:佔中已失控 可能清場|trans-title=CY Leung: 'Occupy Central is out of control. I may clear them out.'|date=12 October 2014|access-date=12 October 2014|work=World Journal|language=zh}}</ref> CY Leung declared that his resignation "would not solve anything".<ref>{{cite web |url=http://news1.mingpao.com/20141013/gaa2.htm |script-title=zh:梁﹕沒想過辭職 下台不能解決佔領被定性「失控群眾運動」 佔中﹕失控的是政府 |trans-title=Leung: Not resigning, resigning cannot break up an 'out of control' Occupy movement; Occupy Central: Government out of control |work=Ming Pao |language=zh |date=12 October 2014 |access-date=12 October 2014 |archive-date=14 October 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141014102105/http://news1.mingpao.com/20141013/gaa2.htm |url-status=dead }}</ref> He said the decision to use tear gas was made by the police without any political interference.<ref>{{cite news|url= https://www.wsj.com/articles/hong-kong-protest-leaders-authorities-trade-barbs-1413106532|title= Hong Kong Protest Leaders, Authorities Trade Barbs|work=The Wall Street Journal|date=12 October 2014|access-date=12 October 2014|first1=Jacky|last1=Wong}}</ref> Several press organisations including the ] objected to the exclusion of other journalists, and said that Leung was deliberately avoiding questions about the issues surrounding the electoral framework.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.bbc.co.uk/zhongwen/trad/china/2014/10/141012_leung_tv_statement|script-title=zh:梁振英反駁逃避傳媒質詢指稱「不符事實」|trans-title=CY Leung retorts accusations of his evading media questions as 'Inconsistent with facts'|work=BBC News|language=zh|date=12 October 2014|access-date=12 October 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thestandard.com.hk/news_detail.asp?pp_cat=30&art_id=150270&sid=43151087&con_type=1&d_str=20141013&isSearch=1&sear_year=2014|title=Protests have 'spun out of control'|work=The Standard|date=13 October 2014|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141018062008/http://www.thestandard.com.hk/news_detail.asp?pp_cat=30&art_id=150270&sid=43151087&con_type=1&d_str=20141013&isSearch=1&sear_year=2014|archive-date=18 October 2014}}</ref>
Protests are being organised largely over social media. Fearing that the mobile phone networks may be disabled by the government, protesters have been turning to ], an app which relies on ] and ] to pass messages daisy chain-style. Micha Benoliel, the CEO of ] (the developer of FireChat) has stated that there has been a huge surge in downloads from Hong Kong, with more than 100,000 new accounts created in less than 24 hours. Usage had spiked during protests in ] and ] earlier in the year, but never on this scale.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bbc.com/news/blogs-trending-29411159|title=BBC News - #BBCtrending: Hong Kong's 'off-grid' protesters|publisher=BBC News|accessdate=3 October 2014}}</ref>
]
On 13 October, hundreds of men, many wearing surgical masks and carrying crowbars and cutting tools, began removing barricades at various sites and attacking suffragists. Police made attempts to separate the groups. Suffragists repaired and reinforced some barricades using bamboo and concrete.<ref name=rushed>{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/oct/13/hong-kong-barricades-rushed-large-crowd|title=Hong Kong pro-democracy activists reinforce barricades at protest site|newspaper=The Guardian|author =Jonathan Kaiman|date=13 October 2014|access-date=5 September 2016 }}</ref><ref>] Full coverage (1.54&nbsp;pm)</ref><ref>] Full coverage (1.56&nbsp;pm)</ref> Protesters again claimed that the attacks were organised and involved triad groups.<ref name="reuters13">{{cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-hongkong-china-idUSKCN0I202620141014|title=Hong Kong police make fresh attempt to clear barricaded roads|work=Reuters|author=Anne Marie Roantree|date=13 October 2014|access-date=5 September 2016|archive-date=14 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141014013306/http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/10/14/us-hongkong-china-idUSKCN0I202620141014|url-status=live}}</ref> Police made three arrests for assault and possession of weapons. Although police cautioned against reinforcing the existing obstacles or setting up new obstacles to enlarge the occupied area, suffragists later reinstated the barriers overnight.<ref name=rushed/>


]
=== 1 October ===
Anti-occupy protesters began to besiege the headquarters of ], publisher of '']''. They accused the paper of biased reporting.<ref>Qi Luo (14 October 2014). {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141018155441/http://www.thestandard.com.hk/news_detail.asp?pp_cat=30&art_id=150350&sid=43156301&con_type=1&d_str=20141014&isSearch=1&sear_year=2014 |date=18 October 2014 }}. ''The Standard''.</ref> Masked men among the protesters prevented the loading of copies of ''Apple Daily'' as well as '']'' onto delivery vans.<ref>{{cite web |title=蘋果又被圍紐約時報發行亦受阻 |trans-title=Apple Daily and The New York Times blocked|url=http://hk.apple.nextmedia.com/realtime/breaking/20141014/53014588 |date=13 October 2014|access-date=13 October 2014}}</ref> ''Apple Daily'' sought a court injunction and a High Court judge issued a temporary order to prevent any blocking of the entrance.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://news.now.com/home/local/player?newsId=114924&home=1|title=高院接受蘋果日報臨時禁制令禁阻出入通道|trans-title=High Court accepts injunction plea from Apple Daily to ban blocking passageways|date=13 October 2014|access-date=13 October 2014}}</ref> Five press unions made a statement condemning the harassment of journalists by anti-occupy protesters.<ref name=autogenerated1>{{cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-hongkong-china-idUSKCN0I202620141014|title=Hundreds of HK police use sledgehammers and chainsaws to dismantle protest barriers|date=13 October 2014|access-date=13 October 2014|work=Reuters|archive-date=14 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141014013306/http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/10/14/us-hongkong-china-idUSKCN0I202620141014|url-status=live}}</ref>
1 October is the ]. Joshua Wong and several Scholarism members attended the flag raising ceremony at the ]. Scholarism promised to not state any slogans or make any gestures during the flag raising. Instead, the students faced away from the flag to show their discontent. Scholarism was allowed to enter the plaza without a full-body search, which was unusual since such procedures were carried out by security guards and police at the 2013 flag raising ceremony. Other protesters chanted slogans requesting Leung to step down.


In the early morning of 14 October, police conducted a dawn raid to dismantle barricades in ] (Causeway Bay site), opening one lane to westbound traffic.<ref>] "Traffic returns to Queensway after major police operation to clear barricades" (6.28&nbsp;am)</ref> They also dismantled barricades at ], Admiralty, and reopened it to traffic.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-10-14/hong-kong-shrinks-pro-democracy-protest-sites-for-second-day.html|title=Hong Kong Students Ready Return of Police With Chain Saws|date=14 October 2014|work=Bloomberg|first=Alfred|last=Liu}}</ref>
Various scholars have been volunteering to give public lectures at the occupied sites.<ref>http://www.post852.com/遍地開花│流動民主教室今日繼續%E3%80%80吳靄儀李志喜/</ref>


Before midnight on 15 October, protesters stopped traffic on Lung Wo Road, the arterial road north of the Central Government Complex at Admiralty, and began erecting barricades. The police were unable to hold their cordon at Lung Wo Road Tunnel and had to retreat for reinforcements and to regroup. Around 3&nbsp;am, police began to clear the road using batons and pepper spray. By dawn, traffic on the road resumed and the protesters retreated into ], while 45 arrests were made.
Malware in the form of a ] attack was conducted on the protesters, allegedly to monitor them, which was speculated to be from the programming and activist group Code4HK or from Chinese intelligence agencies.<ref>. ''The New York Times''.</ref>


=== 2 October === ====Police assault Ken Tsang====
Local television channel ] broadcast footage of ] member ] being ]. He was carried off with his hands tied behind his back; then, while one officer kept watch, a group of about six officers punched, kicked and stamped on him for about four minutes.<ref name=20141015cnnvideo/><ref name=20141015timekentsang/><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/oct/15/hong-kong-police-protester-crackdown|title=Hong Kong police beat protester in violent crackdown on demonstrations|newspaper=The Guardian|date=15 October 2014|access-date=5 September 2016 |last1=Weaver|first1=Jonathan Kaiman Matthew}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2014/10/16/world/asia/video-of-apparent-beating-of-protester-in-hong-kong-stirs-anger.html|title=Hong Kong Melee Fuels Public Outcry|work=The New York Times|author1=Keith Bradsher |author2=Michael Forsythe |date=15 October 2014|access-date=5 September 2016 }}</ref> Journalists complained that they too had been assaulted.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1617217/casual-chat-room-comment-sparked-45-arrests-and-allegations-police|title=The casual chat room comment that sparked 45 arrests and allegations of police brutality|work=South China Morning Post|access-date=16 October 2014|date=15 October 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.digitaljournal.com/news/world/hong-kong-police-in-violent-clashes-with-protesters/article/408683|title=Hong Kong police in violent clashes with protesters|work=Digital Journal|access-date=16 October 2014|date=15 October 2014}}</ref> The video provoked outrage; Amnesty International joined others in calling for the officers to be prosecuted. In response, ] ] said that "the officers involved will be temporarily removed from their current duties."<ref name=20141015cnnvideo>{{cite news|url=http://edition.cnn.com/2014/10/15/world/asia/hong-kong-police-protest-video/index.html|title=Hong Kong authorities vow to probe alleged police beating at protest|date=15 October 2014|access-date=15 October 2014|publisher=CNN}}</ref><ref name=20141015timekentsang>{{cite magazine|url=https://time.com/3508857/ken-tsang-hong-kong-police-brutality-occupy-central/|title=Claims of Police Brutality Threaten to Escalate the Hong Kong Protests|magazine=Time|date=15 October 2014|access-date=15 October 2014|first=Charlie|last=Campbell}}</ref> They were convicted and jailed in 2017 and Tsang commenced a claim for damages against the Commissioner of Police.<ref>{{cite news|newspaper=Hong Kong Free Press|date=13 October 2017|title=Activist Ken Tsang sues for punitive damages from police chief over Umbrella Movement assault|url=https://www.hongkongfp.com/2017/10/13/activist-ken-tsang-sues-punitive-damages-police-chief-umbrella-movement-assault/|last=Cheng|first=Kris|access-date=14 October 2017}}</ref>


]
On 2 October 2014, it appeared to Chinese travel agents as if Beijing suspended visas for group tours to Hong Kong.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://rthk.hk/rthk/news/elocal/news.htm?elocal&20141002&56&1041996|title=Beijing Suspends HK group tour visas|date=2 October 2014|publisher= RTHK news|accessdate=3 October 2014}}</ref>
At 5&nbsp;am on 17 October, police cleared the barricades and tents at the Mong Kok site and opened the northbound side of Nathan Road to traffic for the first time in three weeks. In the early evening, at least 9000 protesters tried to retake the northbound lanes of the road. The police claimed that 15 officers sustained injuries. There were at least 26 arrests, including photojournalist ].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/hong-kong-protesters-reclaim-mongkok-district-1413609015|title=Hong Kong Protesters Reclaim Mongkok District|work=The Wall Street Journal|access-date=18 October 2014|first1=Mia|last1=Lamar|first2=Chester|last2=Yung|first3=Ned|last3=Levin|date=18 October 2014}}</ref> Around midnight, the police retreated and the suffragists re-erected barricades across the road.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1618168/swift-police-operation-ends-occupy-mong-kok|title=Chaos in Mong Kok as police use batons, pepper spray to repel surge of protesters|work=South China Morning Post|access-date=18 October 2014|date=16 October 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/hong-kong-police-clear-part-of-protest-site-1413513491|title=Hong Kong Protesters Return to Mong Kok District, Vow to Hold Ground|work=The Wall Street Journal|access-date=18 October 2014|first1=Fiona|last1=Law|first2=Isabella|last2=Steger|first3=Kathy|last3=Chu|date=17 October 2014}}</ref>


]
At the Hong Kong Government's Headquarters (also known as ''The Bastille of Hong Kong''), the police force made use of ambulances in disguise to smuggle weapons, like tear gas canisters, rubber bullets and machine guns, into the headquarters building. The police force has been caught making use of "food supply to officers on-duty" as an excuse to cover-up their operation. This raised tension of whether Hong Kong was going to repeat the ], in which the police and military forces violently cracked down on unarmed, peaceful pro-democracy protesters.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-china-29454326|title=Hong Kong protests: Echoes of Tiananmen|date=3 October 2014|publisher=BBC|accessdate=3 October 2014}}</ref>
]


On Sunday, 19 October, police used pepper spray and riot gear to contain the protesters in Mong Kok. ], who was at the scene, said that "triad elements" had initiated scuffles with police "for reasons best known to themselves".<ref name="tele19">{{cite news|url= https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/hongkong/11172484/Triads-behind-spike-in-Hong-Kong-protest-violence-activist-claims.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220112/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/hongkong/11172484/Triads-behind-spike-in-Hong-Kong-protest-violence-activist-claims.html |archive-date=12 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live|title='Triads' behind spike in Hong Kong protest violence, activist claims|date=19 October 2014|access-date=19 October 2014|location=London|work=The Daily Telegraph}}{{cbignore}}</ref> The police had arrested 37 protesters that weekend; the government said that nearly 70 people had been injured. At night, two pro-democracy lawmakers, ] and ], appeared at Mong Kok to mediate between the suffragists and the police, leading to a lowering of tensions as the police and suffragists each stepped back and widened the buffer zone. No clashes were reported for the night.<ref>{{cite news|url= https://www.wsj.com/articles/hong-kong-calm-after-clashes-as-government-proposes-talks-1413678697|title=Hong Kong Protest Leaders Call for Calm Ahead of Talks|date=19 October 2014|work=The Wall Street Journal|access-date=20 October 2014|first1=Gillian|last1=Wong|first2=Mia|last2=Lamar}}{{subscription required}}</ref>
The Hong Kong Government bowed down to pressure to hold talks: minutes before the expiry of an ultimatum to ], Chief Executive of Hong Kong, to respond to demands of universal suffrage with uncensored rights of candidate nomination.


On 20 October, a taxi drivers' union and the owner of ] were granted a court injunction against the occupiers of sections of several roads.<ref>Qi Luo (21 October 2014). {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150602074415/http://www.thestandard.com.hk/news_detail.asp?pp_cat=30&art_id=150588&sid=43198525&con_type=3&d_str=20141021&isSearch=1&sear_year=2014 |date=2 June 2015 }}. ''The Standard''</ref> In his first interview to international journalists since the start of the protests, CY Leung said that Hong Kong had been "lucky" that Beijing had not yet intervened in the protests, and repeated Chinese claims that "foreign forces" were involved.<ref name=20141019guardiankaiman/> He defended Beijing's stance on screening candidates. He said that open elections would result in pressure on candidates to create a welfare state, arguing that "If it's entirely a numbers game – numeric representation – then obviously you'd be talking to half the people in Hong Kong earn less than US$1,800 a month . You would end up with that kind of politics and policies."<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2014/10/21/world/asia/leung-chun-ying-hong-kong-china-protests.html|title=Hong Kong Leader Reaffirms Unbending Stance on Elections|work=The New York Times|author1=Keith Bradsher |author2=Chris Buckley |date=20 October 2014|access-date=5 September 2016 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/3f6f1c74-584b-11e4-a31b-00144feab7de.html|title=Hong Kong 'lucky' China has not stopped protests, says CY Leung|work=Financial Times|author1=Josh Noble |author2=Julie Zhu |date=20 October 2014|access-date=5 September 2016 }}</ref> A SCMP comment by columnist Alex Lo said of this interview: "Leung has set the gold standard on how not to do a media interview for generations of politicians to come."<ref>, ''South China Morning Post'', 22 October 2014.</ref>
=== 3 October ===


====Televised debate====
On 3 October 2014 early morning, violence started to break out in ], Kowloon and ], Hong Kong Island. Gangs of anti-Occupy Central mobs made up of masked young men launched unprovoked attacks on pro-democracy protesters.<ref name=scmp7/> The mobs were comprised of "suspected triad and pro-Beijing groups", most of whom refused to talk to media.<ref name = scmpday6>{{cite news|title=OCCUPY CENTRAL - DAY SIX: Full coverage of the day’s events|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1608680/live-student-protesters-await-dialogue-date-lung-wo-road-open-traffic|accessdate=4 October 2014|publisher=South China Morning Post|date=3 October 2014}}</ref><ref name=nyt111>{{cite news|last1=Buckley|first1=Chris|last2=Ramzy|first2=Austin|last3=Wong|first3=Edward|title=Violence Erupts in Hong Kong as Protesters Are Assaulted|url=http://www.nytimes.com/2014/10/04/world/asia/hong-kong-protests.html?hp&action=click&pgtype=Homepage&version=LedeSumLargeMedia&module=a-lede-package-region&region=top-news&WT.nav=top-news&_r=0|accessdate=4 October 2014|publisher=The New York Times|date=3 October 2014}}</ref> They kicked protesters to the ground and beat them, taking advantage of the minimal police presence.<ref name = scmpday6/> They yelled insults and threw plastic bottles at the student protesters and tore down tents sheltering supply stations.<ref name = scmpday6/> The ] complained that the mobs also attacked reporters in Mong Kok. A '']'' reporter and a fellow counter-protester who happened to be wearing a black t-shirt were also hit. A student with a head injury complained that while anti-Occupy mobs beat him, the police did not intervene.<ref name = scmpday6/> Another was rushed out on a stretcher with an oxygen mask on his face.<ref name=nyt111/>
On 21 October, the government and the HKFS held the first round of talks in a televised open debate. ] secretary-general Alex Chow, vice secretary ], general secretary Eason Chung, and standing members ] and Yvonne Leung met with Hong Kong Government representatives Chief secretary Carrie Lam, secretary of justice ], undersecretary ], office director ] and undersecretary ]. The discussion was moderated by Leonard Cheng, the president of ].<ref>Siu, Jasmine (20 October 2014). {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150602064945/http://www.thestandard.com.hk/news_detail.asp?pp_cat=30&art_id=150532&sid=43192431&con_type=1&d_str=20141020&isSearch=1&sear_year=2014 |date=2 June 2015 }}. ''The Standard''.</ref><ref>{{cite web |script-title=zh:政府學聯各派五人出席下周政改對話|trans-title=Government and Students Federation in dialogue together|url=https://hk.news.yahoo.com/政府學聯各派五人出席下周政改對話-103102912.html|date=19 October 2014|language=zh|access-date=19 October 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://edition.cnn.com/2014/10/21/world/asia/hong-kong-protests-talks/index.html|title=Hong Kong protest talks agree little|date=21 October 2014|publisher=CNN|access-date=25 October 2014}}</ref><ref>Kevin Cheng, (22 October 2014). {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150602051950/http://www.thestandard.com.hk/news_detail.asp?pp_cat=30&art_id=150614&sid=43205640&con_type=1&d_str=20141022&isSearch=1&sear_year=2014 |date=2 June 2015 }}. ''The Standard''</ref> During the talks, government representatives suggested the possibility of writing a new report on the students' concerns to supplement the government's last report on political reform to Beijing, but stressed that civil nomination, as proposed by the students, fell outside the framework of the Basic Law and the NPCSC decision, which could be withdrawn.<ref name="LATimes talks">{{cite news|url=https://www.latimes.com/world/asia/la-fg-hong-kong-talks-20141021-story.html#page=1|title=No breakthrough as Hong Kong officials open talks with students|work=Los Angeles Times|date=21 October 2014|access-date=23 October 2014|first=Tiffany|last=Ap}}</ref> The government described the talks as "candid and meaningful" in a press release, while the students expressed their disappointment at the lack of concrete results.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/201410/21/P201410211150.htm|title=Government's response to dialogue with HKFS |date=21 October 2014|publisher=Government of Hong Kong|access-date=23 October 2014}}</ref>


On 22 October about 200 demonstrators marched to ], the official residence of the Chief Executive, in protest at his statement to journalists on 20 October about the need to deny political rights to the poor in Hong Kong.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-china-29719159|title=Hong Kong protests: Activists march to CY Leung's house|publisher=BBC|date=22 October 2014|access-date=5 September 2016 }}</ref> At Mong Kok, members of the Taxi Drivers and Operators Association and a coalition of truck drivers attempted to enforce the court injunction granted two days earlier to remove barricades and clear the street. They were accompanied by their lawyer, who read out the court order to the demonstrators. Fist fights broke out during the afternoon and evening.<ref>Kenneth Lau and Kevin Cheng (23 October 2014). {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150602051943/http://www.thestandard.com.hk/news_detail.asp?we_cat=11&art_id=150677&sid=43213952&con_type=3&d_str=20141023&fc=4 |date=2 June 2015 }}. ''The Standard''</ref>
The police has been accused of letting a free hand on the gangsters by arresting them but immediately releasing the attackers only yards away. There have been isolated but extreme cases in which the police adopted a non-intervention policy to take advantage of the contemporaneous situation. As a response to this, student leaders of Hong Kong have halted plans to hold talks with the government, citing CY Leung's insincerity and stealth tactics as their main causes.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-china-29477731|title=Hong Kong protests: Student leaders postpone talks|date=3 October 2014|publisher=BBC|accessdate=3 October 2014}}</ref>


].]]
] released a statement later in the day condemning Hong Kong police for " in their duty to protect hundreds of peaceful pro-democracy protesters from attacks" and alleging that women were physically attacked, threatened, and sexually assaulted while police watched and did nothing.<ref>{{cite web|title=Hong Kong: Women and girls attacked as police fail to protect peaceful protesters|url=http://www.amnesty.org/en/for-media/press-releases/hong-kong-women-and-girls-attacked-police-fail-protect-peaceful-protesters-|publisher=]|accessdate=4 October 2014|date=3 October 2014}}</ref>
''also see ]''


On 23 October, a massive yellow vertical protest banner which read (in Chinese) "I want real universal suffrage" was hung on ], the iconic hill that overlooks the ] and is seen to represent ].<ref name="20141024hkshilary">{{cite web |author1=Hilary Wong |author2=Kevin Cheng |url=http://www.thestandard.com.hk/news_detail.asp?pp_cat=30&art_id=150731&sid=43221325&con_type=3&d_str=20141024&isSearch=1&sear_year=2014 |title=Spiders get Lion's share of exposure |date=24 October 2014 |work=The Standard |access-date=23 October 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141024112027/http://www.thestandard.com.hk/news_detail.asp?pp_cat=30&art_id=150731&sid=43221325&con_type=3&d_str=20141024&isSearch=1&sear_year=2014 |archive-date=24 October 2014 }}</ref><ref name="20141023wsjrealtime">{{cite news|url=https://blogs.wsj.com/chinarealtime/2014/10/23/pro-democracy-banner-occupies-hong-kongs-iconic-lion-rock-spawns-memes/|title=Pro-Democracy Banner Occupies Hong Kong's Iconic Lion Rock, Spawns Memes|work=The Wall Street Journal|access-date=25 October 2014|date=23 October 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dw.de/hong-kong-protesters-reach-new-heights-with-democracy-banner-on-lion-rock/a-18013822|title=Hong Kong protesters reach new heights with democracy banner on Lion Rock|publisher=Deutsche Welle|access-date=25 October 2014}}</ref> The vertical protest banner was removed the following day.<ref>, ''South China Morning Post'', 24 October 2014.</ref>
Protesters have responded to the threat of these mobs by setting up lookout stations, "not for police, but for troublemakers and thugs".<ref name=scmp7>{{cite news|title=LIVE: 19 arrested, 18 injured after 'triads' attack Mong Kok protest site|url=http://www.scmp.com/article/1609275/live-19-arrested-18-injured-after-triads-attack-mong-kok-protest-site-friday|accessdate=4 October 2014|publisher=South China Morning Post|date=4 October 2014}}</ref>


On 25 October, a group of anti-Occupy supporters wearing blue ribbons gathered at ] to show their support of the police. Four journalists from ] and TVB tried to interview them and were attacked.<ref name="hkej24">{{cite web|url=http://www2.hkej.com/instantnews/current/article/922687/打踢扯_四記者採訪反對佔領活動遇襲|title=打踢扯 四記者採訪反對佔領活動遇襲|trans-title=Brawl—Four journalists assaulted during anti-Occupy efforts|date=26 October 2014|access-date=26 October 2014|archive-date=9 January 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150109032155/http://www2.hkej.com/instantnews/current/article/922687/%E6%89%93%E8%B8%A2%E6%89%AF_%E5%9B%9B%E8%A8%98%E8%80%85%E6%8E%A1%E8%A8%AA%E5%8F%8D%E5%B0%8D%E4%BD%94%E9%A0%98%E6%B4%BB%E5%8B%95%E9%81%87%E8%A5%B2|url-status=dead}}</ref> The police escorted the journalists away.<ref name="hkej24" /> A female reporter for RTHK, a male reporter and two photographers for TVB were taken to hospital.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-hongkong-china-idUSKCN0IE0SL20141025|title=Anti-Occupy mob roughs up Hong Kong journalists|work=Reuters|author=Claire Jim|date=25 October 2014|access-date=5 September 2016|archive-date=3 October 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151003214920/http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/10/25/us-hongkong-china-idUSKCN0IE0SL20141025|url-status=live}}</ref> A group of about 10 men wearing facemasks attacked suffragists in Mong Kok.<ref name="scmpstorm">{{cite web|url= http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1624070/anti-occupy-central-mob-storms-mong-kong-protest-site|title=Anti-Occupy Central group storms Mong Kok protest site|date=25 October 2014|access-date=25 October 2014}}</ref> Six people were arrested for common assault.<ref name="scmpstorm" /> ] said that citizens deserved a chance to express their views over the constitutional reform proposal and the NPCSC's decision of 31 August. He said that the protest would only end if the government offered a detailed timeline or roadmap to allow universal suffrage and withdrawal of the standing committee decision.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1624281/occupy-students-propose-resignation-pan-democrat-lawmakers-trigger|title=Occupy students call for pan-democrats' resignation to trigger referendum|date=25 October 2014|access-date=25 October 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www2.hkej.com/instantnews/current/article/922642/周永康%3A投票非為公投鋪路|title=周永康:投票非為公投鋪路|trans-title=Alex Chow: Voting is not paving a way to a referendum|date=25 October 2014|access-date=25 October 2014|archive-date=25 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141025094423/http://www2.hkej.com/instantnews/current/article/922642/%E5%91%A8%E6%B0%B8%E5%BA%B7%3A%E6%8A%95%E7%A5%A8%E9%9D%9E%E7%82%BA%E5%85%AC%E6%8A%95%E9%8B%AA%E8%B7%AF|url-status=dead}}</ref>
== Organisation and civility ==
The protesters have received a great deal of international media coverage about their high degree of organisation, politeness, tidiness, and "staunch adherence to nonviolence", with the protesters being called "The World’s Politest" by ] and "obsessively clean" by the ].<ref name=slate222>{{cite news|last1=Popovic|first1=Srdja|last2=Porell|first2=Tori|title=The World’s Politest Protesters|url=http://www.slate.com/articles/news_and_politics/foreigners/2014/10/occupy_central_s_polite_protesters_the_hong_kong_demonstrators_are_disciplined.html|accessdate=3 October 2014|date=1 October 2014|ref=slate1}}</ref> They have kept the protest sites clean following nights of tear gas and pepper spray, with plastic bottles and paper even being separated from general refuse for recycling.<ref>{{cite news|title=Clean and orderly, but a protest nonetheless|url=http://www.todayonline.com/world/asia/clean-and-orderly-protest-nonetheless|accessdate=3 October 2014|publisher=Today Online|date=2 October 2014}}</ref><ref name="cleanup">{{cite web|url=http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/asia/hong-kong-protests-demonstrators-clean-up-and-recycle-after-night-of-clashes-with-police-9761598.html|title=Hong Kong protests: Demonstrators clean up and recycle after night of clashes with police|work=The Independent|accessdate=3 October 2014}}</ref><ref name=BBC3oct14>{{cite news|last1=Dissanayake|first1=Samantha|title=Things that could only happen in a Hong Kong protest|url=http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-china-29423147|accessdate=3 October 2014|publisher=BBC News|date=30 September 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=Hong Kong: Protesters 'cleaning up' after peaceful night|url=http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-29420274|accessdate=3 October 2014|publisher=BBC News|date=30 September 2014}}</ref> Students boycotting classes have been doing their homework amid the protest.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Dearden|first1=Lizzie|title=Hong Kong protests: Students complete homework in the streets as occupation continues|url=http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/asia/hong-kong-protests-students-do-their-homework-in-the-streets-as-occupation-continues-9762337.html|accessdate=3 October 2014|publisher=The Independent|date=29 September 2014}}</ref> "Not one person" was seen sitting or standing on the grass surrounding ], Hong Kong's memorial in Central commemorating the dead of the two World Wars.<ref name=BBC3oct14/> Signs were placed all over the city apologising for any inconvenience caused, as well as denouncing any isolated incidents of vandalism.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Chittley|first1=Jordan|title=Hong Kong protesters orderly, polite in push for democracy|url=http://www.ctvnews.ca/world/hong-kong-protesters-orderly-polite-in-push-for-democracy-1.2033505|accessdate=3 October 2014|publisher=]|date=1 October 2014}}</ref>


On 28 October, the HKFS issued an open letter to Chief Secretary Carrie Lam asking for a second round of talks. HKFS set out a prerequisite for the negotiation, that the government's report to the Chinese government must include a call for the retraction of the NPCSC's decision. The HKFS demanded direct talks with Chinese Premier ] should the Hong Kong Government feel it could not fulfil this and other terms.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www2.hkej.com/instantnews/current/article/924148/%E5%AD%B8%E8%81%AF%E7%99%BC%E5%85%AC%E9%96%8B%E4%BF%A1+%E6%8F%90%E5%B0%8D%E8%A9%B1%E4%BA%8C%E5%89%8D%E6%8F%90%28%E9%99%84%E5%85%A8%E6%96%87%29|script-title=zh:學聯發公開信 提對話二前提|trans-title=Federation of Students sends a letter naming two prerequisites|work=Hong Kong Economic Journal|language=zh|access-date=31 October 2014|archive-date=31 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141031143839/http://www2.hkej.com/instantnews/current/article/924148/%E5%AD%B8%E8%81%AF%E7%99%BC%E5%85%AC%E9%96%8B%E4%BF%A1+%E6%8F%90%E5%B0%8D%E8%A9%B1%E4%BA%8C%E5%89%8D%E6%8F%90(%E9%99%84%E5%85%A8%E6%96%87)|url-status=dead}}</ref> The 30th day since the police fired tear gas was marked at 5.57&nbsp;pm exactly, with 87 seconds of silence, one for each tear gas canister that was fired.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailysabah.com/world/2014/10/29/hong-kong-protesters-hush-for-87-secs-to-remember-tear-gas-police-fired|title=Hong Kong protesters hush for 87 secs to remember tear gas police fired |work=Daily Sabah|date=29 October 2014 }}</ref>
Numerous stations were set up by the protesters as a base for food and water distribution, rubbish collection and medical care.<ref name=slate222/> ] also provided medical service from their premises in the heart of the Admiralty protest.


On 29 October, after ] of the pro-Beijing ] urged Leung to consider resigning in a public interview on 24 October,<ref>{{cite news|url= https://www.nytimes.com/2014/10/25/world/asia/James-Tien-says-Leung-Chun-ying-should-think-about-quitting.html|title=Pro-Beijing lawmaker urges hong kong leader to consider quitting|date=24 October 2014|access-date=26 October 2014|work=The New York Times|first=Michael|last=Forsythe}}</ref> the ] Standing Committee convened to discuss Tien's removal from the body as a move to whip the pro-establishment camp into supporting Leung and the country.<ref>Mary Ann Benitez, Kenneth Lauand Eddie Luk (29 October 2014). {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141029053608/http://www.thestandard.com.hk/news_detail.asp?we_cat=11&art_id=150863&sid=43253524&con_type=3&d_str=20141029&fc=2 |date=29 October 2014 }}. ''The Standard''</ref> Tien, a long-time critic of Leung, said that Leung's position was no longer tenable as Hong Kong people no longer trusted his administration, and that his hanging onto office would only exacerbate the divisions in society.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.latimes.com/world/asia/la-fg-hong-kong-chief-pressure-20141024-story.html|title=Hong Kong chief faces new calls to step down as protests continue|date=24 October 2014|work=Los Angeles Times|access-date=31 October 2014|first=Echo|last=Hui}}</ref> Tien stepped down from his position as the leader of the Liberal Party after the removal.<ref>{{cite news|url= https://www.nytimes.com/2014/10/30/world/asia/james-tien-china-hong-kong-expelled.html|title=Politician Who Called for Hong Kong Leader's Resignation Is Formally Penalized|date=29 October 2014|access-date=31 October 2014|work=The New York Times|first1=Michael|last1=Forsythe|first2=Alan|last2=Wong}}</ref> Lester Shum refused bail extension based on conditions imposed after his arrest on 26 September, and was released unconditionally by police.<ref> {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141031141342/http://www.thestandard.com.hk/news_detail.asp?we_cat=4&art_id=150856&sid=43252822&con_type=1&d_str=20141029&fc=2 |date=31 October 2014 }}. ''The Standard'', 29 October 2014</ref> That day was also the day of the ] event.
== Reactions ==


===Domestic reactions=== === November 2014 ===
]


The anti-Occupy group ] had run a petition throughout the end of October to the start of November, and at the end of their campaign claimed to have collected over 1.8&nbsp;million signatures demanding the return of streets occupied by the protesters and restoration of law and order. Each signator are required to show a valid Hong Kong ID card and the final result is checked and verified to make sure there is no multiple voting by the same individual. The group's previous signature collection has been criticised as "lack of credibility" by its opponents.<ref>{{cite news |title=Petition against democracy movement in Hong Kong collects more than 1.8&nbsp;million signatures |work=The Straits Times |date=4 November 2014 |url=http://www.straitstimes.com/news/asia/east-asia/story/petition-against-democracy-movement-hong-kong-collects-more-18-million-sig |access-date=12 November 2014 }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Ng|first1=Joyce |title=Questions raised over credibility of planned anti-Occupy signature campaign |url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1551059/questions-raised-about-credibility-planned-anti-occupy-signature?page=all |access-date=30 September 2014 |work=South China Morning Post |date=10 July 2014}}</ref>
====Public opinion towards police action====
Director of ] Law Yuk-kai was dissatisfied with the unnecessary violence by the police, believing that students only broke into the Civic Square to sit-in peacefully, with no intentions of destroying government premises. He questioned the mobilisation of ] while protesters staged no conflict, and the use of ] was not minimally violent as the police stated, because truncheons could severely harm protesters. In 27 September afternoon, ] of the ] read aloud on stage outside the ] a statement signed by pan-democrats. The statement wrote the police exercised unnecessary violence against protesters in 26 September evening, when the students were only trying to enter the Civic Square with no violent actions. The statement also urged the government to free all students. President of The ] Student Union Tommy Cheung Sau-yin said, all that the students did was raise their hands, and crowd management was well done, this student movement was however smeared as a violent action. He also criticised the police's attack on citizens.


The High Court extended injunctions on 10 November that had been granted to taxi, mini-bus and bus operators authorising the clearance of protest sites. On the following day, Carrie Lam told reporters that there would be no further dialogue with protesters. She warned that "the police will give full assistance, including making arrests where necessary" in the clearance of the sites, and advised the protesters to leave "voluntarily and peacefully".<ref name=ruling>{{cite news |url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/nov/11/hong-kong-protesters-face-arrest-court-ruling |title=Hong Kong protesters face arrest after court rules on evictions |newspaper=The Guardian |date=11 November 2014 |access-date=11 November 2014|agency=Associated Press }}</ref> However, the granting of the court order and the conditions attached to its execution attracted controversy as some lawyers and a top judge questioned why the order was granted based on an ex parte hearing, the urgency of the matter, and the use of the police when the order was for a civil complaint.<ref name=scmo-injunction>{{cite news |last1=Joyce|first1=Ng |url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1638381/top-court-judge-questions-odd-injunction |title=Top court judge questions 'odd' injunction |date=13 November 2014 |work=South China Morning Post |access-date=30 November 2014}}</ref>
====Hong Kong government====
Deputy Director of the Basic Law Committee ] did not think the police used excessive violence, and believed the failure of dialogue between students and the ] did not justify a raid into the Civic Square. The Spokesperson for the Junior Police Officers Association also thought the police's measures to restore order were reasonable, and expressed regret towards the peaceful assembly's sudden escalation into a raid. ] ] commented the police cleared the movement with restraint, only starting clearance when repeated warnings failed. He commented as well that the equipment was decided circumstantially, as the police must be prepared for self-defence. Members of the Defend Hong Kong Campaign gathered at MTR Admiralty station for assembly and demonstration in support of the police, criticising the HKFS and ]'s attempt at breaking into the Civic Square. ] Chairman ] disapproved of the attack at the ]. He disagreed that the police were excessively violent, saying they would not use pepper spray illegitimately. The ] released a statement expressing regret towards the violent turn of events and supporting the police's efforts to maintain social stability.


On 10 November, around 1,000 pro-democracy demonstrators, many wearing yellow ribbons and carrying yellow umbrellas, marched to the ] in ] to protest the arrests of people expressing support for the protest.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-china-29975423 |title=Hong Kong protesters carry out 'yellow ribbon' march |date=9 November 2014 |access-date=9 November 2014|work=BBC News }}</ref> The marchers included Alex Chow, who announced that the Federation of Students were writing to the 35 local delegates to the ] to enlist their help in setting up talks with Beijing.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1635943/occupy-fight-goes-liaison-office |title= Occupy supporters march to liaison office |date=10 November 2014 |work=South China Morning Post |access-date=10 November 2014}}</ref> On 30 October Chow and other student leaders had announced that they were considering plans to take their protest to the ] to be held in Beijing on 10 and 11 November.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/hong-kong-students-consider-taking-protest-to-beijing-1414679281 |title=Hong Kong Students Consider Taking Protest to Beijing |work=The Wall Street Journal |author1=Lamar, Mia |author2=Steger, Isabella |date=30 October 2014 |access-date=5 September 2016 }}</ref> As observers had predicted, the student delegation led by Chow was prevented from travelling to China when they attempted to leave on 15 November.<ref name="bbc.co.uk">{{cite news |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-china-30067035 |title=Hong Kong protest leaders denied Beijing flight |publisher=BBC |date=15 November 2014 |access-date=16 November 2014}}</ref> Airline officials informed them that mainland authorities had revoked their ]s, effectively banning them from boarding the flight to speak to government officials in Beijing.<ref>{{cite web |author1=Ng, Joyce |author2=Nip, Amy |author3=Lau, Stuart |url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1640648/occupy-leaders-seeking-travel-beijing-denied-boarding-airport-cathay |title=Beijing bans student leaders from taking trip to mainland to press for democracy |date=15 November 2014 |work=South China Morning Post |access-date=30 November 2014}}</ref>
On September 29, Carrie Lam announced that the second round of public consultations on political reform, originally planned to be completed by the end of the year, would be postponed. Also, the annual National Day fireworks celebration on October 1 was announced to be cancelled.<ref name="wsj-carrielam">"Yung, Chester. ", '']''. 2014-09-29.</ref>


On 12 November, media tycoon ] was the target of an ] attack at the Admiralty site by three men, who were detained by volunteer marshalls for the protest site.<ref name=ts-offal>{{cite news|url=http://www.thestandard.com.hk/news_detail.asp?we_cat=4&art_id=151372&sid=43354957&con_type=1&d_str=20141113&fc=4 |title=Offal attack on Lai as trio pelt tycoon with pig guts |last1=Staff Reporter |access-date=30 November 2014 |work=] |date=13 November 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141113100230/http://www.thestandard.com.hk/news_detail.asp?we_cat=4&art_id=151372&sid=43354957&con_type=1&d_str=20141113&fc=4 |archive-date=13 November 2014 }}</ref><ref name=bp-rotten>{{cite news |url=http://www.bangkokpost.com/news/asia/442962/rotten-offal-hits-hk-media-tycoon |title=Rotten offal hits HK media tycoon |last1=AFP |access-date=30 November 2014 |work=Bangkok Post |date=12 November 2014}}</ref> Both the attackers and the two site marshalls who restrained them were arrested by the police, which led to condemnation by the pan-democracy camp, who organised an unauthorised protest march the next day. The two marshalls from the protest site were later released on bail.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1638941/occupy-central-marshals-arrested-fighting-join-march-protest-charges |title=Occupy marshals arrested after restraining Jimmy Lai attackers join protest march |work=South China Morning Post |date=13 November 2014 |access-date=13 November 2014}}</ref>
====Chinese government and media====
On 28 September it emerged that Chinese government authorities had issued the following censorship directive: "All websites must immediately clear away information about Hong Kong students violently assaulting the government and about 'Occupy Central.' Promptly report any issues. Strictly manage interactive channels, and resolutely delete harmful information. This must be followed precisely."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://chinadigitaltimes.net/2014/09/minitrue-delete-harmful-information-hong-kong/|title=Minitrue: Delete Harmful Information on Hong Kong|publisher=China Digital Times|author=josh rudolph|date=28 September 2014|accessdate=3 October 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1603840/doomed-protests-will-not-change-beijings-decision-political-reform|title='Doomed' protests will not change Beijing's decision on political reform, warns Chinese state paper|publisher=South China Morning Post|author=James Griffiths|date=29 September, 2014|accessdate=3 October 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/09/29/us-hongkong-china-internet-idUSKCN0HO1KV20140929|title=China censors try to blunt Hong Kong protests, don't always succeed|publisher=Reuters|author=PAUL CARSTEN|date=Sep 29, 2014|accessdate=3 October 2014}}</ref>


The state-run tabloid '']'' stated that Hong Kong radical activism was "doomed" and that the Chinese government would not budge on Hong Kong's political future. It further speculated that the ], China's paramilitary force, would assist Hong Kong police in clamping down on the protests. The article was later deleted.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1603840/doomed-protests-will-not-change-beijings-decision-political-reform|title='Doomed' protests will not change Beijing's decision on political reform, warns Chinese state paper|work=South China Morning Post|accessdate=29 September 2014}}</ref> On the morning of 18 November, in compliance with a court injunction, suffragists pre-emptively moved their tents and other affairs that were blocking access to Citic Tower, avoiding confrontation with bailiffs and the police over the removal of barricades.<ref name=scmp-bailiffs>{{cite news |last1=Lau|first1=Chris |last2=Yu|first2=Alan |last3=Lee|first3=Eddie |url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1642742/live-students-pack-tents-bailiffs-move-clear-occupy-area-outside |title=Hong Kong protesters show little resistance as bailiffs remove barriers in Admiralty |access-date=30 November 2014 |work=South China Morning Post |date=18 November 2014}}</ref>


In the early hours of 19 November, protesters broke into a side-entrance to the ], breaking glass panels with concrete tiles and metal barricades. Legislator ] and other suffragists tried to stop the radical activists, but were pushed aside.<ref name=hks43399690>{{cite news |last1=Lau|first1=Kenneth |last2=Cheng|first2=Kevin |last3=Luk|first3=Eddie |title=Radical mob splits Occupy |url=http://thestandard.com.hk/news_detail.asp?pp_cat=30&art_id=151588&sid=43399690&con_type=3 |access-date=30 November 2014 |work=The Standard |date=20 November 2014 |location=Hong Kong|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141129064151/https://www.thestandard.com.hk/news_detail.asp?pp_cat=30&art_id=151588&sid=43399690&con_type=3|archive-date=29 November 2014|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Protesters clash with police at Hong Kong legislature |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-china-30110276 |publisher=] |access-date=26 January 2021 |date=19 November 2014}}</ref> The break-in, which according to ''The Standard'' was instigated by Civic Passion,<ref name=st-mad-dog>{{cite news |last1=Lau|first1=Kenneth |url=http://thestandard.com.hk/news_detail.asp?pp_cat=30&art_id=151584&sid=43399820&con_type=3|title=Rioters linked to Mad Dog follower |access-date=30 November 2014 |work=The Standard|location=Hong Kong |date=20 November 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141129064148/http://thestandard.com.hk/news_detail.asp?pp_cat=30&art_id=151584&sid=43399820&con_type=3|archive-date=29 November 2014|url-status=dead}}</ref> was "strongly" condemned by Occupy Central for Love and Peace, and legislators from both the pan-democracy and pro-Beijing camps.<ref name=hks43399690/>
On 29 September, the '']'', an official newspaper of the government of China, suggested that organisers of the Hong Kong protests learned their tactics from supporters of the ] in ]. The opinion piece alleged that the organisers first sought support from the United Kingdom and the United States, then invited the Sunflower leaders to Hong Kong to share their experience.<ref></ref><ref></ref>


On 21 November, up to 100 people gathered outside the ] accusing the former colonial power of failing to pressure China to grant free elections in the city and protect freedoms guaranteed in the ].<ref>{{cite news |url=https://news.yahoo.com/hong-kong-democracy-activists-protest-outside-british-consulate-143643222.html |title=Hong Kong democracy activists protest outside British consulate |agency=Agence France-Presse |date=21 November 2014 |access-date=23 November 2014}}</ref>
On 1 October, the ''People's Daily'' said that the Beijing stance on Hong Kong's elections is "unshakeable" and legally valid. It stated that pro-democracy 'Occupy Central' protests are illegal and are hurting Hong Kong and warned, "If it continues, the consequences will be unimaginable." It concluded by stating, "If a few people are determined to go against the rule of law and provoke disturbances, in the end they will reap what they have sown."<ref></ref> Some observers have remarked that the editorial is similar to the ] that led to the brutal crackdown in the ].<ref></ref> On the next day, the paper stated that Hong Kong residents should support authorities in their efforts to deploy police enforcement and restore the social order in Hong Kong, and warned of consequences towards Hong Kong's economy and ] if the protests continue.<ref name="cbc.ca">{{cite web|url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/world/china-warns-hong-kong-protesters-of-unimaginable-consequences-1.2783437|title=Hong Kong protesters poised to occupy buildings if leader won't budge|date=1 October 2014|publisher=|accessdate=3 October 2014}}</ref>
]
Amidst declining support for the occupation, bailiffs and police cleared the tents and barriers in the most volatile of the three Occupy sites, Mong Kok, on 25 and early 26 November. Suffragists poured into Mong Kok after the first day's clearance, and there was a stand-off between protesters and police the next day. Scuffles were reported, and pepper spray was used. Police detained 116 people during the clearance, including student leaders Joshua Wong and Lester Shum.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/nov/26/hong-kong-student-leaders-arrested-police-attempt-clear-protest-zone |title=Hong Kong student leaders arrested as police attempt to clear protest zone |work=The Guardian |date=26 November 2014 |access-date=26 November 2014}}</ref> Joshua Wong, Lester Shum and some 30 of those arrested were bailed but subject to an exclusion zone centred around ].<ref name=tshk-banned>{{cite news |last1=Lau |first1=Kenneth |title=Banned from Monk Kok |url=http://www.thestandard.com.hk/news_detail.asp?pp_cat=30&art_id=151824&sid=43447116&con_type=3&d_str=20141128&isSearch=1&sear_year=2014 |access-date=30 November 2014 |work=The Standard |date=28 November 2014 |location=Hong Kong |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141205001533/http://www.thestandard.com.hk/news_detail.asp?pp_cat=30&art_id=151824&sid=43447116&con_type=3&d_str=20141128&isSearch=1&sear_year=2014 |archive-date=5 December 2014 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Chu|first1=Julie |url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1603471/scholarisms-joshua-wong-released-high-court-judges-instruction |title=Scolarism's Joshua Wong released at High Court's judge instruction |date=28 September 2014 |work=South China Morning Post |access-date=30 November 2014}}</ref> Mong Kok remained the centre of focus for several days after the clearance of the occupied area, with members of the public angry about heavy-handed policing.<ref name=20141128NYT>{{cite news |last1=Buckley|first1=Chris |last2=Wong|first2=Alan |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2014/11/29/world/asia/clashes-in-hong-kong-as-protesters-return-to-cleared-camp.html |title=Hong Kong Clashes Flare as Protesters Return to Camp |access-date=30 November 2014 |work=] |date=28 November 2014}}</ref><ref name=20141129reuters>{{cite news |last1=Pomfret|first1=James |url=http://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-hongkong-china-idUKKCN0JC1V320141129 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170312110333/http://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-hongkong-china-idUKKCN0JC1V320141129 |url-status=dead |archive-date=12 March 2017 |title=Hong Kong protesters clash with police after new clampdown |access-date=30 November 2014 |work=Reuters |date=29 November 2014}}</ref> Fearing re-occupation, in excess of 4,000 police were deployed to the area.<ref name=20141128NYT/><ref name=20141129reuters/> Large crowds, ostensibly heeding a call from C. Y. Leung to return to the shops affected by the occupation, appeared nightly in and around ] South (close to the former occupied site); hundreds of armed riot police charged demonstrators with shields, pepper spraying and wrestling them to the ground. Protesters intent on "]" (shopping) remained until dawn.<ref name=20141128NYT/><ref name=20141129reuters/>


Overnight on 30 November, there were violent clashes between police and protesters in Admiralty after the Federation of Students and Scholarism called upon the crowd to surround the Central Government Offices. The police used a hose to splash protesters for the first time. The entrance to the Admiralty Centre was also blocked. Most of the violence occurred near Admiralty MTR station.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1652860/live-occupy-students-clash-police-near-hong-kongs-government|title=OCCUPY CENTRAL – DAY 64: Joshua Wong announces hunger strike to call for talks with government|date=30 November 2014|work=South China Morning Post}}</ref> Also, ] and two other ] members began an indefinite hunger strike.<ref>{{cite news|first1=Ilaria Maria |last1=Sala |first2=Jonathan |last2=Kaiman |date=1 December 2014 |title=Hong Kong protest leader Joshua Wong goes on hunger strike |url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/dec/01/hong-kong-protest-leader-joshua-wong-hunger-strike |newspaper=The Guardian}}</ref>
The ''People's Daily'' threatened in a front page commentary on 4 October that the protests “could lead to deaths and injuries and other grave consequences.”<ref name=nyt111/>
The ] ] visited the ] on 1 October, in advance of President Obama's November 10-12 visit to Beijing, and met with ] ] and the President. Wang Yi stated that public order was the first priority. The President and Ambassador Rice noted that the US is following developments in Hong Kong closely and expressed their hope that differences between Hong Kong authorities and protestors will be addressed peacefully. An official report of the meeting reaffirmed that "the United States has consistently supported the open system that is essential to Hong Kong’s stability and prosperity, universal suffrage, and the aspirations of the Hong Kong people."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/video/2014-10/02/c_133688718.htm|title=Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi visits U.S.|publisher=]|accessdate=3 October 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2014/10/01/readout-national-security-advisor-susan-e-rice-s-meeting-foreign-ministe|title=Readout of National Security Advisor Susan E. Rice’s Meeting with Foreign Minister Wang Yi|publisher=The White House|accessdate=3 October 2014}}</ref>


===International reactions=== ===December 2014===
]
]
On 3 December, the OCLP trio, along with 62 others, including lawmaker ] and Cardinal ], turned themselves in to the police to bear the legal consequences of civil disobedience. However, they were set free without being arrested or charged.<ref name="SCMP20141204">{{cite news|title=Police let Occupy organisers walk away without charge after they turn themselves in|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1654634/no-regrets-says-occupys-benny-tai-he-prepares-hand-himself-police|access-date=6 December 2014|work=South China Morning Post|date=4 December 2014}}</ref> They also urged occupiers to leave and transform the movement into a community campaign, citing concerns for their safety amidst the police's escalation of force in recent crackdowns.<ref name="OCLP20141202">{{cite web|url=http://oclp.hk/index.php?route=occupy/eng_detail&eng_id=61|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141221022947/http://oclp.hk/index.php?route=occupy/eng_detail&eng_id=61|url-status=dead|archive-date=21 December 2014|title=Occupy Central Trio's Letter to the Hong Kong People|publisher=Occupy Central with Love and Peace|date=2 December 2014|access-date=6 December 2014|last1=Tai|first1=Benny Yiu-ting|last2=Chan|first2=Kin-man|last3=Chu|first3=Yiu-ming}}</ref> Nonetheless, HKFS and Scholarism both continued the occupation. Nightly "Gau Wu" tours continued in Mong Kok for over a week after the clearance of the occupation site, tying up some 2500 police officers.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1655597/occupy-protesters-mong-kok-take-shopping-tour|title=Occupy protesters in Mong Kok take to the 'shopping tour'|date=4 December 2014|work=South China Morning Post}}</ref> The minibus company that took out the Mong Kok injunction was in turn accused of having illegally occupied ] for years.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ejinsight.com/20141208-mong-kok-minibus-group-faces-backlash-after-anti-occupy-move/|title=Mong Kok minibus group faces backlash after anti-Occupy move|work=EJ Insight|date=8 December 2014}}</ref>


On the morning of 11 December, many protesters left the Admiralty site before crews of the bus company that had applied for the Admiralty injunction dismantled roadblocks without resistance. Afterwards, the police set a deadline for protesters to leave the occupied areas and cordoned off the zone for the remainder of the day.<ref>] Full coverage (2.30&nbsp;pm)</ref> 209 protesters declined to leave and were arrested,<ref>] Full coverage (10.40&nbsp;pm)</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://hk.apple.nextmedia.com/realtime/news/20141211/53221233|title=【金鐘清場】警方共拘209人 籲佔銅者盡快離開|date=11 December 2014|work=Apple Daily|access-date=11 December 2014|archive-date=13 December 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141213014142/http://hk.apple.nextmedia.com/realtime/news/20141211/53221233|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name=bbc30426346>{{cite news |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-china-30426346 |title=Hong Kong protests: Arrests as Admiralty site is cleared |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=11 December 2014 |access-date=11 December 2014 }}</ref> including several pan-democratic legislators and members of HKFS and Scholarism.<ref>] Full coverage (8.15&nbsp;pm)</ref> Meanwhile, the police set the bridge access to Citic Tower and Central Government Office only allowing media to access. The Independent Police Complaints Council was present to monitor the area for any "excessive use of force" along with fifty professors.<ref>{{Cite news |title=Hong Kong protesters will be arrested if they have not left Admiralty Occupy site by 11&nbsp;am |url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1659334/bring-occupy-organisers-book-pro-government-lawmakers-say-ahead |date=11 December 2014 |access-date=11 December 2014 |work=South China Morning Post }}</ref>
====Organisations====
* {{flag|United Nations}} – Secretary-General ]'s spokesman Stephane Dujarric said that Ban "understands that this is a domestic matter, but urges all stakeholders to resolve any differences in a manner that is peaceful and safeguards democratic principles."<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.trust.org/item/20140930162930-i500h|title=U.N. chief urges respect for democratic principles in Hong Kong|date=30 September 2014|accessdate=30 September 2014}}</ref>
* {{flagdeco|East Turkestan}} ] – President ] said the protests in Hong Kong "are very inspiring" to ], and "if Hong Kong wins, it will benefit ] as well, and then the Uighurs can strengthen their own movement."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.foreignpolicy.com/articles/2014/10/01/Rebiya_Kadeer_Uighur_Hong_Kong_independence|title=Their Only Option Is Independence|date=1 October 2014|work=Foreign Policy|accessdate=3 October 2014}}</ref>


On 15 December, police cleared protesters and their camps at ] with essentially no resistance, bringing the protests to an end.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-30474687|title=Police clear final Hong Kong protest site at Causeway Bay|work=BBC News|date=15 December 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/hong-kong-police-clear-last-protest-site-1418616478?tesla=y|title=Hong Kong Police Clear Last Protest Site|author =Mia Lamar And Isabella Steger|date=15 December 2014|work=The Wall Street Journal}}</ref>
====States====
* {{flag|Australia}} – The Australian government issued travel advice recommending Australians to avoid protest sites in Hong Kong and take alternative routes through the city,<ref>{{citation|url=http://www.smartraveller.gov.au/zw-cgi/view/Advice/Hong_Kong|publisher=Australian Government|accessdate=1 October 2014|quote=This Advice was last issued on Wednesday, 01 Octoberu 2014. This advice has been reviewed and reissued with updated information in the Summary and under Safety and Security (large numbers of pro-democracy protesters continue to gather in the Central and Admiralty districts of Hong Kong island. Small numbers of protesters have also gathered in Causeway Bay (Hong Kong island) and in Mongkok and Tsim Sha Tsui on the Kowloon peninsula. Police have deemed the protests illegal, but have ceased crowd-dispersal measures. There is continuing disruption to traffic and public transport in affected areas. The MTR underground transport system continues to operate. We recommend that Australians find alternative routes through the city, avoid large public demonstrations, and monitor local media to keep abreast of latest developments). We continue to advise Australians to exercise normal safety precautions in Hong Kong.|title=Hong Kong:Travel Advice}}</ref><ref name="TravelAlert">{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-china-29405576|quote=As well as the UK, travel alerts have been issued by the US, Australia and Singapore.|title=As it happened: Hong Kong protests|publisher=BBC News|author1=Alex Kleiderman|author2=Khanim Javadova|author3=Yaroslav Lukov|author4=Julia Macfarlane|author5=Anna Jones|author6=Tessa Wong|accessdate=29 September 2014}}</ref> while pro-democracy supporters across Australia held demonstrations in solidarity with Occupy Central protesters, including in Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney.<ref>{{cite news|date=1 October 2014|url=http://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2014/oct/01/hong-kong-protests-demonstrations-across-australia-show-support|title=Hong Kong protests: demonstrations across Australia show support|first=Melissa|last=Davey|newspaper=The Guardian|archivedate=1 October 2014|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20141001090149/http://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2014/oct/01/hong-kong-protests-demonstrations-across-australia-show-support}}</ref>
* {{flag|Canada}} – The ] said that Canada is "supportive of democratic development in Hong Kong and believe that the ongoing adherence to the ‘One Country, Two Systems’ policy has contributed to and remains essential for Hong Kong’s stability and prosperity." Moreover, the ministry said that Canada "reiterates its support for the implementation of universal suffrage for the election of the Chief Executive in 2017 and all members of the Legislative Council in 2020, in accordance with the Basic Law and the democratic aspirations of the Hong Kong people."<ref>{{cite news|last1=Chase|first1=Steven|title=Ottawa 'supportive' of demonstrations in Hong Kong|url=http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/ottawa-supportive-of-demonstrations-in-hong-kong/article20837632/|work=The Globe and Mail|date=29 September 2014}}</ref>
* {{flag|France}} – The French Foreign Ministry stated that it was "closely following" street demonstrations in Hong Kong and stressed the protesters' right to march peacefully. "We are closely following the evolution of the situation and we reiterate our attachment to the right to demonstrate peacefully," Foreign Ministry spokesman Romain Nadal told at a news conference.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.straitstimes.com/news/asia/east-asia/story/hong-kong-protests-france-closely-following-situation-stresses-right-prote#sthash.CAwEP122.dpuf|title=Hong Kong protests: France 'closely following' situation, stresses right to protest peacefully|accessdate=3 October 2014}}</ref>
* {{flag|Italy}} – The Italian Foreign Ministry released a statement, declaring it is "following what is happening in Hong Kong with attention" and is also "hoping that the local and Chinese authorities, in the face of the peaceful demands of many young people and citizens, show wisdom and listening skills." The Ministry also advocated "a common solution which also responds to the legitimate aspirations of those who ask for the respect of the Constitution adopted in 1997".<ref>http://www.esteri.it/MAE/IT/Sala_Stampa/ArchivioNotizie/Comunicati/2014/09/20140930_HongKongdialogo.htm</ref>
* {{flag|Japan}} – Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary ] said at a press conference, "A democratic Hong Kong that is prosperous and stable will play an extremely important role for countries in the Asia-Pacific region, including Japan. Our hope is that Hong Kong will be able to maintain its free and open system under (the principle of) 'one country, two systems".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.globalpost.com/dispatch/news/kyodo-news-international/140930/japan-supports-hong-kongs-free-open-system-spokesman|title=Japan supports Hong Kong's free, open system: spokesman|work=GlobalPost|accessdate=3 October 2014}}</ref>
* {{flag|Philippines}} – The ] has issued a travel advisory warning Filipino nationals and workers to avoid demonstration sites in order to prevent fines and deportation, namely in: Central, Admiralty, Tim Me Avenue, Lung Wei Road, Causeway Bay, Mongkok, Wan Chai and the government headquarters in Tamar stating that, "to ensure your safety and avoid being inadvertently perceived as being part of the protest actions." The Foreign Affairs Department is closely monitoring the situation through its consulate in Hong Kong.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Fabunan|first1=Sara Susanne D.|title=Pinoys told to stay clear of HK protest|url=http://manilastandardtoday.com/2014/09/30/pinoys-told-to-stay-clear-of-hk-protest/|publisher=]|date=30 September 2014}}</ref>
* {{flag|Russia}} – Russian state media accused the protests as being another colour revolution similar to the ] and also alleged that the movement was covertly sponsored by both the United States and United Kingdom governments.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://online.wsj.com/articles/russian-state-media-portray-hong-kong-protests-as-u-s-plot-1412103539|title=Russian State Media Portray Hong Kong Protests as U.S. Plot|date=30 September 2014|work=WSJ|accessdate=3 October 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/hongkong/11131070/Russian-state-television-says-Britain-and-US-provoked-Hong-Kong-protests.html|title=Russian state television says Britain and US provoked Hong Kong protests|date=30 September 2014|work=The Daily Telegraph|accessdate=3 October 2014}}</ref>
* {{flag|Singapore}} – Singapore has issued a travel alert.<ref name="TravelAlert" />
* {{flag|Republic of China}} – President ] said, "We are worried about the developments in Hong Kong. We are very concerned about how it will affect Hong Kong's future as well as China's international image."<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.aljazeera.com/programmes/talktojazeera/2014/09/ma-ying-jeou-an-inexplicable-fear-201492613134516309.html|title=Ma Ying-jeou: 'One country, one system'|publisher=Al Jazeera|date=29 September 2014|accessdate=30 September 2014}}</ref> Ma expressed his understanding and support for Hong Kong residents' demand for universal suffrage, and said the realisation of universal suffrage will be a win-win scenario for both Hong Kong and mainland China.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Huang|first1=Kelven|last2=Low|first2=Y.F.|title=Ma urges Beijing to listen to Hong Kongers' voices|url=http://focustaiwan.tw/search/201409290010.aspx?q=president|accessdate=2 October 2014|agency=Central News Agency|date=29 September 2014}}</ref> The ] of Taiwan also issued a statement, expressing the Party's support for pursuit of democracy in Hong Kong.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Chen|first1=Ted|title=Ruling and opposition parties express stances on Hong Kong protests|url=http://www.chinapost.com.tw/taiwan/national/national-news/2014/10/01/418450/Ruling-and.htm|date=1 October 2014|work=China Post|accessdate=2 October 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dpp.org.tw/news_content.php?sn=7382|title=Standing Strong with Hong Kong|publisher=Democratic Progressive Party|date=30 September 2014|accessdate=2 October 2014}}</ref>


== Impact ==
* {{flag|United Kingdom}} – The United Kingdom said it was concerned by the heavy response in Hong Kong and that it is monitoring events carefully. Prime Minister ] said on Tuesday he was deeply concerned about clashes in Hong Kong between riot police and thousands of pro-democracy protesters. He said he feels a deep obligation as UK was the former sovereignty state of Hong Kong. "When we reached the agreement with China there were details of that agreement about the importance of giving the Hong Kong people a democratic future within this two systems approach that we were setting out with the Chinese so of course I am deeply concerned about what is happening and I hope this issue can be resolved," Cameron said.<ref name="UK">{{cite news|url=http://news.sky.com/story/1344068/hong-kong-china-warns-uk-not-to-interfere|title=Hong Kong: China Warns UK Not To 'Interfere'|publisher=Sky News|date=29 September 2014|accessdate=29 September 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://uk.reuters.com/article/2014/09/30/uk-hongkong-china-britain-idUKKCN0HP0JH20140930|title=Cameron says deeply concerned about Hong Kong clashes|accessdate=3 October 2014}}</ref> Deputy Prime Minister and Lord President of the Council ] tweeted supporting the protests and acknowledging the UK's continued commitment to the Sino-British Joint Declaration and the "One Country, Two Systems" policy. The Foreign Office called on Hong Kong to uphold residents' rights to demonstrate, and stated that the best way to guarantee these rights is through transition to universal suffrage.<ref>{{cite news|title=Hong Kong protests: UK 'concerned' about situation|url=http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-29411128|accessdate=30 September 2014|publisher=BBC News}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Foreign Office monitoring events in Hong Kong|url=https://www.gov.uk/government/news/foreign-office-monitoring-events-in-hong-kong|website=GOV.UK|accessdate=30 September 2014}}</ref> The United Kingdom has also issued a travel alert.<ref name="TravelAlert" />
* {{flag|United States}} – ] spokesman ] said, "The United States supports universal suffrage in Hong Kong in accordance with the Basic Law and we support the aspirations of the Hong Kong people. We believe in an open society, with the highest possible degree of autonomy and governed by the rule of law, is essential for Hong Kong's stability and prosperity." Earnest further stated the position of chief executive in Hong Kong would be given more credibility if the people could freely choose its candidates for the job.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-china-29418179|title=Hong Kong protests: Thousands defy calls to go home|publisher=BBC News|accessdate=3 October 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asiapacific/us-urges-hong-kong/1388662.html|title=US urges Hong Kong authorities to show 'restraint' amid protests|publisher=Channel NewsAsia|accessdate=3 October 2014}}</ref> The United States has also issued a travel alert.<ref name="TravelAlert" /> U.S. President ] told Chinese Foreign Minister ] on Wednesday that the United States was watching protests in Hong Kong closely and urged a peaceful solution to the issue.
* {{flag|Vietnam}} - The Foreign Ministry’s Spokesperson Le Hai Binh said this is “internal affairs for China.”<ref>{{cite news|title=Vietnamese advised to avoid protest sites in Hong Kong|url=http://news.chinhphu.vn/Home/Vietnamese-advised-to-avoid-protest-sites-in-Hong-Kong/201410/22604.vgp|accessdate=3 October 2014|agency=ONLINE NEWSPAPER OF THE GOVERNMENT OF THE SOCIALIST REPUBLIC OF VIET NAM}}</ref>


====Rallies and petitions==== === Effects on business and transport ===
]
Rallies in support of the protests have occurred in locations including: Vancouver, Chicago, Boston, Los Angeles, New York City, London, Manchester, Perth, Canberra, Sydney, Toronto, Kaohsiung, Melbourne, Adelaide, Kuala Lumpur, Berlin, Mostar, Macau, Paris, Dublin, Seattle, Auckland, Copenhagen and Stockholm.<ref name=TIME>{{cite news|last1=Iyengar|first1=Rishi|title=Global Support Pours In for Hong Kong Democracy Protests|url=http://time.com/3444225/hong-kong-democracy-protests-global-support/|work=Time|date=29 September 2014}}</ref> A group of supporters in ], where protests had recently occurred in response to the ], held up signs in Chinese to express their solidarity with Hong Kong demonstrators. Petitions in Australia and ] urging support for the protests have collected more than 500 and 183,000 signatures respectively.<ref name=TIME/> In Taipei, locals organised a solidarity protest, whose participants were reported to have scuffled with ] after crowding a ].<ref name=TIME/> On 1 October, a gathering in ] drew over 10,000 people in support of the protests.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.appledaily.com.tw/realtimenews/article/politics/20141001/479959|title=萬人站出來挺港人 自由廣場手機燈海|accessdate=3 October 2014}}</ref> In Singapore, hundreds of people turned up for the candlelight vigil held at ] on 1 October to show support for the demonstrators in the Occupy Central protest in Hong Kong.<ref name=TODAY>{{cite news|last1=MING EN|first1=SIAU|title=S’poreans show support for protesters at Hong Lim|url=http://www.todayonline.com/singapore/sporeans-show-support-protesters-hong-lim|publisher=TODAY|date=2 October 2014}}</ref>
Surface traffic between Central and Admiralty, Causeway Bay, as well as in Mong Kok, was seriously affected by the blockades, with traffic jams stretching for miles on Hong Kong Island and across Victoria Harbour.<ref name=talks>{{cite news|url=http://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-hongkong-china-idUKKCN0HW08P20141007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160630224946/http://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-hongkong-china-idUKKCN0HW08P20141007|url-status=dead|archive-date=30 June 2016|title=Hong Kong protests at crossroads, talks to start on Friday|work=Reuters|author1=Diana Chan |author2=John Ruwitch |date=7 October 2014|access-date=5 September 2016 }}</ref><ref>Lau, Kenneth; Wong, Hilary (8 October 2014). {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141012204112/http://www.thestandard.com.hk/news_detail.asp?pp_cat=30&art_id=150167&sid=43124324&con_type=3&d_str=20141008&isSearch=1&sear_year=2014 |date=12 October 2014 }}. ''The Standard''.</ref> Major tailbacks were reported on ], ] and ], which are feeder roads to the blockaded route in Admiralty.<ref name=20140928straits/> With in excess of 100 bus or tram routes suspended or re-routed,<ref name=ktuu/> queues for underground trains in the Admiralty district spilled onto the street at times.<ref name=talks/> The ], the city's underground transport operator, was a beneficiary,<ref name=20141009hkskindy>Lau, Kenneth; Wong, Hilary (9 October 2014). {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141014185852/http://www.thestandard.com.hk/news_detail.asp?pp_cat=30&art_id=150210&sid=43130018&con_type=1&d_str=20141009&isSearch=1&sear_year=2014 |date=14 October 2014 }}. ''The Standard''.</ref> enjoying a 20 per cent increase in passenger trips recorded on two of its lines.<ref>Ma, Mary (14 October 2014). {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141018155305/http://www.thestandard.com.hk/news_detail.asp?pp_cat=49&art_id=150319&sid=43155556&con_type=1&d_str=20141014&isSearch=1&sear_year=2014 |date=18 October 2014 }}. ''The Standard''.</ref> Others have opted to walk instead of driving.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-10-12/movie-stars-swap-limos-for-subway-in-hong-kong-protest.html|title=Movie Stars Swap Limos for Subway in Hong Kong Protest|date=13 October 2014|work=Bloomberg}}</ref> Taxi drivers reported a fall in income as they had to advise passengers to use the MTR when faced with jams, diversions or blockaded roads.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://america.aljazeera.com/articles/2014/10/4/hong-kong-democracy.html|title=Hong Kong residents slowly losing patience with protests|access-date=28 October 2014}}</ref> Hong Kong Taxi Owners' Association claimed its members' incomes had declined by 30 per cent since the protests started.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-10-20/hong-kong-court-bans-street-occupation-as-police-warn-of-riot-.html|title=Hong Kong Court Bans Occupations as Police Warn of Riot|author =Alex Davis|date=20 October 2014|work=Bloomberg|access-date=28 October 2014}}</ref> Levels of PM2.5 particulate matter at the three sites declined to within the recommended safety levels of the World Health Organization.<ref name= 20141216appledaily/><ref name=20141217scmp/> An editorial in the ''South China Morning Post'' noted that, on 29 September, the air quality in all three of the occupied areas had markedly improved. The health risk posed by airborne pollutants was "low" – it was usually "high" – and there was a steep fall in the concentration of ]. It said: "without a policy shift, after the demonstrations have ended, we will have to rely on our memories of the protest days for what clean vehicles on our roads mean for air quality".<ref>{{cite news|title=Protesters who blocked roads also cleared Hong Kong's polluted air|url=http://www.scmp.com/comment/insight-opinion/article/1612281/protesters-who-blocked-roads-also-cleared-hong-kongs|access-date=25 December 2014|work=South China Morning Post|date=9 October 2014}}</ref>


Nursery, primary and secondary schools within the Central and Western catchment areas were suspended from 29 September onwards. Classes for 25,000 primary students and 30,000 secondary students resumed on 7 October.<ref name="ReferenceA">], DAY EIGHT: Full coverage.</ref><ref>] Full coverage (7.45&nbsp;pm)</ref><ref>Lau, Kenneth; Wong, Hilary (8 October 2014). {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141012180355/http://www.thestandard.com.hk/news_detail.asp?pp_cat=30&art_id=150130&sid=43116820&con_type=3&d_str=20141007&isSearch=1&sear_year=2014 |date=12 October 2014 }}. ''The Standard''.</ref> Kindergartens and nursery schools resumed operations on 9 October, adding to the traffic burden.<ref name=20141009hkskindy/> The Hong Kong Retail Management Association reported that chain stores takings declined between 30 and 45 per cent during the period 1–5 October in Admiralty, Central and Causeway Bay.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://lfpress.com/2014/10/07/hong-kong-protests-at-crossroads-talks-to-start-on-friday|title=Hong Kong protests at crossroads|work=The London Free Press|access-date=8 October 2014|date=7 October 2014}}</ref> The media reported that some shops and banks in the protest areas were shuttered.<ref name=ktuu>{{cite web|url=http://www.ktuu.com/how-hong-kong-protests-are-affecting-travel/28329016?item=1|title=How Hong Kong protests are affecting travel|publisher=KTUU.com|access-date=8 October 2014|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141013151519/http://www.ktuu.com/how-hong-kong-protests-are-affecting-travel/28329016?item=1|archive-date=13 October 2014}}</ref>
====Foreign media====
The incident has captured the attention of American and European media after the clearance and arrests outside the ]. BBC reported that the Hong Kong Police had cleared away democracy activists.<ref name="bbc1" /> According to the officials of Occupy Central, the police used pepper spray and unnecessary violence against protesters without prior warning.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/sep/28/hong-kong-occupy-central-teargas-police-electoral-limits|title=Tens of thousands join pro-democracy protest in Hong Kong|author=Tania Branigan|work=The Guardian|accessdate=29 September 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-china-29398962|title=Hong Kong: Tear gas and clashes at democracy protest|publisher=BBC News|accessdate=29 September 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://news.sky.com/story/1343524/rubber-bullet-fears-amid-protests-in-hong-kong|title=Rubber Bullet Fears Amid Protests In Hong Kong|publisher=Sky News|accessdate=29 September 2014}}</ref> In addition, CNN released a news report<ref>. Retrieved 29 September 2014</ref> stating that the police responded towards protesters with pepper spray who tried to cross to the ], which subsequently resulted in the student leaders protesting peacefully at the Civic Square being arrested.


According to the World Bank, the protests were damaging Hong Kong's economy while China remained largely unaffected.<ref name=talks/> Although the ] fell by 2.59% during the ], it recovered and trading volume rose considerably.<ref name=quartz275559>{{cite web|url=http://qz.com/275559/tourism-is-actually-up-during-hong-kongs-protests-and-other-economic-surprises/|title=Tourism is actually up during Hong Kong's protests, and other economic surprises|work=Quartz|author =Heather Timmons|date=8 October 2014|access-date=5 September 2016 }}</ref> '']'' published on 4 October estimated that the protests had cost Hong Kong HK$40&nbsp;billion ($5.2&nbsp;billion), with tourism and retail reportedly being hardest hit. However, tourist numbers for the "Golden Week" (beginning 1 October) were 4.83% higher than the previous year, according to the Hong Kong Tourism Board. While substantial losses by retailer were predicted, some stores reported a marked increase in sales.<ref name=quartz275559/> Triad gangs, which had reportedly suffered a 40% decline in revenues, were implicated in the attacks in ], where some of the worst violence had occurred.<ref name=underworld>{{cite news|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-10-09/hong-kong-s-triads-see-underworld-business-squeezed-by-protests.html |title=Triads See Underworld Business Hurt by Hong Kong Protests |publisher=Bloomberg |author1=David Tweed |author2=Dominic Lau |date=10 October 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150218002625/http://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2014-10-09/hong-kong-s-triads-see-underworld-business-squeezed-by-protests |archive-date=18 February 2015 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=reuters1010>{{cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-hongkong-china-idUSKCN0HZ04R20141010|title=Thousands of Hong Kong protesters regroup after government rejects talks|work=Reuters|author1=Donny Kwok|author2=Diana Chan|date=10 October 2014|access-date=5 September 2016|archive-date=14 October 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151014195336/http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/10/10/us-hongkong-china-idUSKCN0HZ04R20141010|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=autogenerated2>{{cite web|url=http://hk.apple.nextmedia.com/news/first/20141007/18892050|script-title=zh:國安策劃反佔中上海仔頭馬搞亂旺角|work=Apple Daily|language=zh|date=7 October 2014|access-date=7 October 2014|archive-date=20 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141020105813/http://hk.apple.nextmedia.com/news/first/20141007/18892050|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name=ejin20141216>{{cite news|title=Occupy protests had little impact on HK economy: report|url=http://www.ejinsight.com/20141216-hk-economy-not-affected-much-by-occupy-protests/|access-date=25 December 2014|publisher=ejinsight.com|date=16 December 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.thetimes.co.uk/tto/news/world/asia/article4226566.ece|title=Hired thugs attack Hong Kong democracy protesters|newspaper=The Times|author =Lewis, Leo |date=11 October 2014|access-date=5 September 2016 }}</ref> Economic effects seemed either to be extremely localised or transient, and in any event much less than the dire predictions of business lobbies. One of the hardest hit may have been the Hong Kong Tramways Company, which reported a decline in revenues of US$1&nbsp;million.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Tsang|first1=Emily|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1651188/tramways-loses-hk78-million-revenue-after-being-stopped-its-tracks?page=all|title=Tramways loses HK$7.8&nbsp;million revenue after being stopped in its tracks
International awareness is increasing, and the movement itself is taking shape in a more structured manner, even with its own logo for the protest. The 'Umbrella revolution' symbol is being shared on Twitter throughout the world.<ref name="scmp.com"/>
|access-date=25 December 2014|work=South China Morning Post|date=29 November 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last1=Timmons|first1=Heather|last2=Lam|first2=Danni|title=These businesses really got creamed during Hong Kong's Umbrella Movement|url=http://qz.com/314976/these-businesses-really-got-creamed-during-hong-kongs-umbrella-movement/|access-date=25 December 2014|work=Quartz|date=19 December 2014}}</ref> An economist said that the future stability will depend on political governance, namely if political issues such as income gaps and political reforms will be addressed.<ref name=ejin20141216/>


=== Effects on Hong Kong society ===
== Gallery ==
The protests have caused strong differences of opinion in Hong Kong society, with a "yellow (pro-occupy) vs. blue (anti-occupy)" war being fought, and unfriending on social media, such as Facebook.<ref name=20141009hksmary>Mary Ma (9 October 2014). {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150602010904/http://www.thestandard.com.hk/news_detail.asp?pp_cat=49&art_id=150216&sid=43129605&con_type=1&d_str=20141009&isSearch=1&sear_year=2014 |date=2 June 2015 }}. ''The Standard''</ref> Hong Kong people who oppose the Occupy protests do so for a number of different reasons. A significant part of the population, refugees from Communist China in the 1950s and 1960s, lived through the turmoil of the ]. Others feel that the protesters are too idealistic, and fear upsetting the PRC leadership and the possibility of another repeat of the crackdown that ended the ].<ref name=20141007cnnwhos>{{cite news|url=http://edition.cnn.com/2014/10/07/world/asia/hong-kong-protest-explainer/index.html|title=Who's who in the Hong Kong protests?|date=7 October 2014|publisher=CNN|access-date=12 October 2014}}</ref> However, the overwhelming reason is the disruption to the lives of ordinary citizens caused by roads blocked, traffic jams, school closures, and financial loss to businesses (including in particular those run by the Triads in Mong Kok).<ref name=20141007cnnwhos/>
<gallery mode="packed" heights="100" perrow="3">
According to some reports, the police actions on the protesters has resulted in a breakdown of citizens' trust in the previously respected police force. The police deny accusations that they failed to act diligently.<ref name=20141007cnntrust/> The media have reported on individuals who have quit their jobs, or students abroad who have rushed home to become a part of history, and one protester saw this as "the best and last opportunity for Hong Kong people's voices to be heard, as Beijing's influence grows increasingly stronger".<ref name=20141009smhwhere/> Police officers have been working 18-hour shifts to the detriment of their family lives.<ref name=poll/> Front line police officers, in addition to working long hours, being attacked and abused on the streets, are under unprecedented stress at home. Psychologists working with police officers in the field report that some felt humiliated as they may have been unfriended on Facebook, and family may blame them for their perceived roles in suppressing the protests.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/asia/hong-kong-protests-police-officers-upset-at-being-unfriended-on-facebook-9787447.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220501/https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/asia/hong-kong-protests-police-officers-upset-at-being-unfriended-on-facebook-9787447.html |archive-date=1 May 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live|title=Hong Kong protests: Police officers upset at being 'un-friended' on Facebook|work=The Independent|access-date=12 October 2014|location=London|first=Lizzie|last=Dearden|date=10 October 2014}}{{cbignore}}</ref><ref>Zhao, Shirley (10 October 2014). . ''South China Morning Post''</ref><ref>Jasmine Siu, Hilary Wong and Kevin Cheng (20 October 2014). {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150602014816/http://www.thestandard.com.hk/news_detail.asp?pp_cat=30&art_id=150531&sid=43192767&con_type=1&d_str=20141020&isSearch=1&sear_year=2014 |date=2 June 2015 }}. ''The Standard''</ref> Although the media has often dubbed it "Asia's Finest", the reputation of the police has taken a serious drubbing following the heavy-handed treatment of protesters, as well as police brutality captured on camera and made viral.<ref name=wsj1412398431/> ], the police commissioner appointed in 2011, is held responsible for the procedural escalation of police violence in the face of protesters, through deployment of riot police and 87 instances in which tear gas was released; dispersal of unarmed students also caused disquiet among senior police staffers.<ref name=wsj1412398431/><ref name=20141002bloomb>{{cite news|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2014-10-02/tear-gas-erodes-hong-kong-police-force-s-hard-won-reputation|title=Tear Gas Erodes Hong Kong Police Force's Hard-Won Reputation|author =David Tweed|date=3 October 2014|publisher=Bloomberg L.P.}}</ref>
Admiralty (West) Bus Terminus Goods Supply 20140928.jpg|Supply station
港人聲援佔中抗拒警方封鎖 (19).jpg|Protesters block a main road
港人聲援佔中抗拒警方封鎖 (18).jpg|Umbrellas used as defence
Protesters Block MTR Admiralty Exit A 20140928.jpg|Protesters block MTR exit
港人聲援佔中抗拒警方封鎖 (12).jpg|Queensway is occupied
29.9.14 Hong Kong protest Red Cross.jpg|Red Cross volunteers offer medical service
29.9.14 Hong Kong protest Admiralty Centre.jpg|Protesters outside Admiralty Centre
29.9.14 Hong Kong protest beneath Central Government Offices.jpg|Protesters standing under the Central Government Offices
香港警方使用催淚彈驅散佔中抗議人群.jpg|Hong Kong police using tear gas to disperse the protesters
香港示威者築起鐵馬陣阻止警方清場.jpg|Demonstrators erecting fences to prevent police clearance
港人週三繼續參與街上佔據行動 (10).jpg|The tent city on 1 October
</gallery>


In an opinion poll of Hong Kong citizens carried out since 4 October by ], 59% of the 850 people surveyed supported the protesters in their refusal to accept the government plan for the 2017 election. 29% of those questioned, the largest proportion, blamed the violence that had occurred during the demonstrations on the chief Executive ].<ref name=poll>{{cite news|url=https://www.economist.com/news/china/21623768-officials-hope-wear-protesters-down-time-may-be-side-students-waiting|title=The waiting game|newspaper=The Economist|date=11 October 2014|access-date=5 September 2016 }}</ref>
== See also ==

{{commons category|2014 Hong Kong protests}}
==Triad involvement and counterprotester recruitment allegations==
*]
]
*]
The ] showed video footage from a Hong Kong TV network which appeared to show 'anti-Occupy protesters' being hired and transported to an Occupy protest site. The 'protesters', many of whom were initially unaware of what they were being paid to do, were secretly filmed on the bus being handed money by the organiser. Anonymous police sources informed the BBC '']'' investigation that "back-up was strangely unforthcoming" to scenes of violence. The '']'' also reported claims that people from poor districts were being offered up to HK$800 per day, via ] messaging, to participate in anti-Occupy riots.<ref name=20141007cnntrust>{{cite news|url=http://www.cnn.com/2014/10/07/world/asia/hong-kong-police-public-trust |title=The end of trust? Hong Kong sees police force in a new light |publisher=CNN |date=7 October 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150629183636/http://www.cnn.com/2014/10/07/world/asia/hong-kong-police-public-trust/ |archive-date=29 June 2015 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1609827/i-wasnt-scared-tear-gas-i-was-when-i-was-groped-christine-says|title= I wasn't scared of tear gas but I was when I was groped, 'Christine' says|work=South China Morning Post|date=5 October 2014|access-date=8 October 2014}}</ref>
*]

The Hong Kong police has stated that up to 200 gangsters from two major triads may have infiltrated the camps of Occupy Central supporters, although their exact motives are as yet unknown. A police officer explained the police could not arrest the triad gangsters there "if they do nothing more than singing songs for democracy".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1615353/police-says-triads-sent-infiltrators-camps-occupy-supporters-and|title=Triads infiltrated camps of Occupy supporters and detractors, say police|work=South China Morning Post|date=12 October 2014}}</ref> A 2013 editorial in the '']'' of Taiwan described the pro-Beijing "grass-roots" organisations in Hong Kong: "Since Leung has been in office, three organizations – ], Caring Hong Kong Power and the Hong Kong Youth Care Association – have appeared on the scene and have been playing the role of Leung's hired "thugs", using ]-style language and methods to oppose Hong Kong's pan-democratic parties and groups."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.taipeitimes.com/News/editorials/archives/2013/09/09/2003571680|title=Cultural revolution replayed in HK|work=Taipei Times|author =Paul Lin|date=9 September 2013|access-date=5 September 2016 }}</ref> Both '']'' and the ], as well as some pan-democrat legislators in Hong Kong, have named the ] and ] as being responsible for the attacks.<ref name="appled">{{cite web|title=國安策劃反佔中 上海仔頭馬搞亂旺角|trans-title=China Security plotted against Occupy Central; "Shanghai Kid" gangsters mingling in Mong Kok|url=http://hk.apple.nextmedia.com/news/first/20141007/18892050|date=7 October 2014|access-date=7 October 2014|archive-date=20 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141020105813/http://hk.apple.nextmedia.com/news/first/20141007/18892050|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="rfat1">{{cite web|url= http://www.rfa.org/mandarin/Xinwen/jyxw-10082014161946.html|script-title=zh:大陆派便衣入港曝光:组织黑道攻击"占中" |trans-title=Exposing PRC's mission to Hong Kong as ordinary citizens: Mob triads attacking Occupy Central |publisher=Radio Free Asia |language=zh|date=8 October 2014|access-date=8 October 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.straitstimes.com/news/asia/east-asia/story/hong-kong-protests-who-are-behind-fridays-triad-attacks-protesters-2014100|title=Hong Kong protests: Who are behind Friday's triad attacks on protesters?|work=The Straits Times|date=4 October 2014|access-date=5 September 2016 }}</ref>

] member ] alleged that "The police is happy to let the triad elements to threaten the students, at least for several hours, to see whether they would disperse or not." He added, "Someone, with political motive, is utilising the triad to clear the crowd, so as to help the government to advance their cause."<ref name=bbctriad>{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-29522392|title=Hong Kong: Triad gangs accused of intimidating protesters|publisher=BBC|date=7 October 2014|access-date=5 September 2016 }}</ref> ] condemned the police for " in their duty to protect protesters from attacks" and stating that women were attacked, threatened, and sexually assaulted while police watched and did nothing.<ref name=20141007cnntrust/> Commander Paul Edmiston of the police admitted officers had been working long hours and had received heavy criticism. Responding to accusations that police chose not to protect the protesters, he said: "No matter what we do, we're criticized for doing too little or too much. We can't win."<ref name=20141005latimes/> An analysis in ''Harbour Times'' suggested that businesses that pay protection money to Triads in the neighbourhood stood to be affected by an occupation.<ref name=20141009harbourtimes/> The journal criticised police response as being at first disorganised and slow onto the scene, but observed that its handling was within operating norms in triad-heavy neighbourhoods although it was affected by low levels of mutual trust, suspicion.<ref name=20141009harbourtimes/>

==Local media coverage==
{{see also|Media of Hong Kong}}
Many of Hong Kong's media outlets are owned by local tycoons who have significant business ties in the mainland, so they all adopt self-censorship at some level and have mostly maintained a conservative editorial line in their coverage of the protests.<ref name=huff6028004>{{cite news|url=https://www.huffingtonpost.com/amy-wu/hong-kongs-alternative-re_b_6028004.html|title=Hong Kong's 'Alternative' Revolution: Facebook, House News, and Passion Times|work=HuffPost | date=22 October 2014}}</ref> ], being Hong Kong's only openly pro-democracy media conglomerate, has been the target of blockades by anti-Occupy protesters, cyberattacks, and hijacks of their delivery trucks. The uneven spread of viewpoints on traditional media has turned young people to social media for news, which '']'' has described as making the protests "the best-documented social movement in history, with even its quieter moments generating a maelstrom of status updates, shares and likes."<ref name="guardian media">{{cite news|url= https://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/oct/29/hong-kong-protests-confidence-media|title= Hong Kong protests bring crisis of confidence for traditional media|date=29 October 2014|access-date=29 October 2014|newspaper= The Guardian|last1= Kaiman|first1= Jonathan}}</ref> People at protest sites now rely on ] whose launches were propelled by the protests, also called "umbrella revolution", or actively covered news from a perspective not found in traditional journals. Even the recently defunct '']'' resurrected itself, reformatted as ''The House News Bloggers''. Radical viewpoints are catered for at ''Hong Kong Peanut'', and ''Passion Times'' – run by ].<ref name=huff6028004/>
{{see also|Beating of Ken Tsang}}
]{{ external media
| width = 210px
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}}The prominent local station, ], originally broadcast footage of police officers beating a protester on 15 October, but the station experienced internal conflict during the broadcast.<ref name="20141016hkskenneth">Kenneth Lau and Jasmine Siu (16 October 2014). {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141024062236/http://www.thestandard.com.hk/news_detail.asp?pp_cat=30&art_id=150444&sid=43171371&con_type=1&d_str=20141016&isSearch=1&sear_year=2014 |date=24 October 2014 }}. ''The Standard''.</ref> The pre-dawn broadcasts soundtrack mentioning "punching and kicking" was re-recorded to say that the officers were "suspected of using excessive force".<ref name="scmptvbnewspolice">{{cite web|url= http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1618746/tvb-boss-backs-news-chiefs-handling-police-beating?comment-sort=|title= TVB boss backs news chief's handling of police 'beating'|date=18 October 2014|access-date=18 October 2014}}</ref> Secret audio recordings from an internal meeting were uploaded onto YouTube that included the voice of TVB director Keith Yuen Chi-wai asking "On what grounds can we say officers dragged him to a dark corner, and punched and kicked him?"<ref name="scmptvbnewspolice" /> The protester was later named as ] member ], who was also a member of the Election Committee that returned CY Leung as the city's Chief Executive.<ref name="20141016hkskenneth"/> About 57 journalists expressed their dissatisfaction with the handling of the broadcast. A petition by TVB staff to management protesting the handling of the event was signed by news staff.<ref name="20141016hkskenneth"/> The list grew to 80+ people including employees from sports, economics and other departments.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://news.ltn.com.tw/news/world/breakingnews/1134335 |title=「TVB新聞女神」驚傳要走人 網友揣測是「被辭職」|trans-title=TVB News Goddess, Snowy Choi, suddenly rumoured to have left; netizens speculating 'forced resignation' |date=18 October 2014 |work=] |access-date=18 October 2014}}</ref> In 2015, the video, entitled "Suspected Police Brutality Against Occupy Central Movement's Protester", was declared the Best TV news item at the 55th ]; it was praised for its "comprehensive, objective and professional" report. It also won a prize at the Edward E. Murrow Awards in the Hard News category.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ejinsight.com/20150623-tvb-footage-of-police-beating-protester-wins-journalism-award/|title=TVB footage of 'police beating protester' wins journalism award|work=EJ Insight|date=23 June 2015}}</ref>

Internet security firm ] said that, like for the attacks on PopVote sponsored by OCLP earlier in the year, the volume of ] ''Apple Daily'' servers was an unprecedented 500&nbsp;Gbit/s and involved at least five ]s. Servers were bombarded with in excess of 250&nbsp;million DNS requests per second, equivalent to the average volume of ] requests for the entire Internet. And where the attacks do not succeed directly, they have caused some internet service providers to pre-emptively block such sites under attack to protect their own servers and lines.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/parmyolson/2014/11/20/the-largest-cyber-attack-in-history-has-been-hitting-hong-kong-sites/|title=The Largest Cyber Attack in History Has Been Hitting Hong Kong Sites|author =Parmy Olson|date=20 November 2014|work=Forbes}}</ref>

==Chinese government and media==
Beijing is generally reported as being concerned about similar popular demands for political reform on the mainland that would erode the ]'s hold on power.<ref name=20140901NYTrestricts/> Reuters sources revealed that the decision to offer no concessions was made at a meeting of the ] chaired by General secretary ] in the first week of October. " move back one step and the dam will burst," a source was reported as saying, referring to mainland provinces such as ] and ] making similar demands for democratic elections.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-hongkong-china-idUSKCN0ID0AY20141024|title=Protesters in Hong Kong to vote on government proposals|work=Reuters|author1=Diana Chan|author2=Donny Kwok|date=24 October 2014|access-date=5 September 2016|archive-date=29 September 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150929183520/http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/10/24/us-hongkong-china-idUSKCN0ID0AY20141024|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-hongkong-china-beijing-idUSKCN0I315G20141014?feedType=RSS&feedName=everything&virtualBrandChannel=11563|title=China won't cede to HK protests, army used only as last resort-sources|work=Reuters|author1=Benkamin Kang Lim|author2=Ben Blanchard|date=14 October 2014|access-date=5 September 2016|archive-date=24 September 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924205338/http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/10/14/us-hongkong-china-beijing-idUSKCN0I315G20141014?feedType=RSS&feedName=everything&virtualBrandChannel=11563|url-status=live}}</ref> ''The New York Times'' China correspondents say that the strategy for dealing with the crisis in Hong Kong was being planned under supervision from the top-tier national leadership, which was being briefed on a daily basis. According to the report, Hong Kong officials are in meetings behind the scenes with mainland officials in neighbouring Shenzhen, at a resort owned by the central government liaison office.<ref name=20141018nytbradsher>Keith Bradsher and Chris Buckley, (18 October 2014). . ''The New York Times''</ref> Beijing's direct involvement was confirmed subsequently by pro-establishment figures in Hong Kong.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ejinsight.com/20150326-has-leung-really-secured-beijings-blessing-to-seek-second-term/|title=Has Leung really secured Beijing's blessing to seek second term?|work=EJ Insight|date=27 March 2015}}</ref> The HKFS, which had been hoping to send a delegation to meet with the leadership in Beijing, was rebuffed by ], vice-chairman of the NPC, whom they asked to help set up the meetings.<ref> {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141110044835/http://www.thestandard.com.hk/news_detail.asp?we_cat=4&art_id=151221&sid=43333705&con_type=1&d_str=20141110&fc=1 |date=10 November 2014 }}. Kenneth Lau, (10 November 2014)</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.straitstimes.com/news/asia/east-asia/story/ex-hong-kong-chief-exec-tung-chee-hwa-says-china-wont-change-mind-democrac|title=Ex-Hong Kong Chief Exec Tung Chee Hwa says China won't change mind on democracy: Paper|newspaper=The Straits Times|date=9 November 2014}}</ref>

] ] ] stated his support for ] on the 44th day of the occupation, saying the occupation was a "direct challenge not just to the SAR and its governance but also to Beijing". Xi also said that Leung's administration must govern to safeguard the ] and maintain social order.<ref>Luk, Eddie; Wong, Hilary (10 November 2014). {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141110044610/http://www.thestandard.com.hk/news_detail.asp?pp_cat=30&art_id=151206&sid=43333773&con_type=1&d_str=20141110&isSearch=1&sear_year=2014 |date=10 November 2014 }}. ''The Standard''.</ref>

=== Censorship ===
On 28 September it emerged that Chinese government authorities had issued the following censorship directive: "All websites must immediately clear away information about Hong Kong students violently assaulting the government and about 'Occupy Central.' Promptly report any issues. Strictly manage interactive channels, and resolutely delete harmful information. This must be followed precisely."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://chinadigitaltimes.net/2014/09/minitrue-delete-harmful-information-hong-kong/|title=Minitrue: Delete Harmful Information on Hong Kong|work=China Digital Times|author =josh rudolph|date=28 September 2014|access-date=3 October 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1603840/doomed-protests-will-not-change-beijings-decision-political-reform|title='Doomed' protests will not change Beijing's decision on political reform, warns Chinese state paper|work=South China Morning Post|author =James Griffiths|date=29 September 2014|access-date=3 October 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-hongkong-china-internet-idUSKCN0HO1KV20140929|title=China censors try to blunt Hong Kong protests, don't always succeed|work=Reuters|author=Paul Carsten|date=29 September 2014|access-date=3 October 2014|archive-date=3 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141003010610/http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/09/29/us-hongkong-china-internet-idUSKCN0HO1KV20140929|url-status=live}}</ref> Censors rapidly deleted messages internet posts with words such as "Hong Kong," "barricades", "Occupy Central" and "umbrella".<ref name=20140930nyt-jacobs>Jacobs, Andrew (30 September 2014). . ''The New York Times''.</ref><ref name=bbc29409533>{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/technology-29409533|title=Instagram appears blocked in China|work=BBC News|date=29 September 2014}}</ref> Sections of the CNN reporting from Hong Kong was also disrupted.<ref name=20140930nyt-jacobs/> Most Chinese newspapers have not covered the protests except for editorials critical of the protests and devoid of any context,<ref name=20140930nyt-jacobs/><ref>{{cite news|url=http://edition.cnn.com/2014/10/06/opinion/china-media-protests-young/index.html|title=Opinion: How China controls Hong Kong protest coverage|date=7 October 2014|publisher=CNN|access-date=12 October 2014}}</ref> or articles mentioning the negative impact of the occupation.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.aljazeera.com/indepth/features/2014/09/china-hong-kong-protests-media-war-201493010055870127.html|title=The media war for Hong Kong|author =Jennifer Duggan|publisher=Al Jazeera|access-date=31 October 2014}}</ref> The Chinese website of the BBC was completely blocked after a video showing the violent assault on a protester by police on 15 October hosted on the site went viral.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.straitstimes.com/news/asia/east-asia/story/hong-kong-protests-china-blocks-bbc-website-after-police-brutality-video-g|title=Hong Kong protests: China blocks BBC website after police brutality video goes viral|work=The Straits Times|access-date=16 October 2014|date=15 October 2014}}</ref> Amnesty International reported that dozens of Chinese people have been arrested for showing support for the protests.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.amnesty.org/en/documents/ASA17/053/2014/en/|title=China: Detained For Supporting Hong Kong Protests|publisher=Amnesty International|date=9 October 2014|access-date=5 September 2016 }}</ref> Facebook and Twitter are already blocked on the mainland, and now as a result of the sharing of images of the protests, PRC censors have now blocked Instagram.<ref name=bbc29409533/><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/shortcuts/2014/oct/01/hong-kong-protestor-689-democracy-cy-leung-electoral-system|title=Why are Hong Kong's protesters rallying around the number 689?|newspaper=The Guardian|date=October 2014}}</ref> However, Reuters noted that searches for "Umbrella Revolution" up to 30 September escaped censors on Sina Weibo but not on Tencent Weibo.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-hongkong-china-censorship-idUSKCN0HP0H120140930|title=HK protests' 'Umbrella Revolution' tag escapes China's censors – so far|work=Reuters|access-date=31 October 2014|date=30 September 2014|archive-date=29 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141029150141/http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/09/30/us-hongkong-china-censorship-idUSKCN0HP0H120140930|url-status=live}}</ref> Despite this, certain American-funded reporting by the ] and ] was able to break through some of the internet censors and provide information on the protests to inhabitants of the Chinese mainland.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.bbg.gov/blog/2014/10/06/voa-rfa-evade-chinese-government-censors-with-coverage-of-hong-kong-protests/|title=VOA, RFA Evade Chinese Government Censors, Cover Hong Kong Protests|date=6 October 2014|access-date=6 July 2016}}</ref>

=== Allegations of foreign interference ===
Mainland Chinese officials and media have repeatedly alleged that outside forces fomented the protests. Li Fei, the first Chinese official to address Hong Kong about the NPCSC decision, accused democracy advocates of being tools for subversion by Western forces who were set at undermining the authority of the Communist Party. Li alleged that they were "sowing confusion" and "misleading society".<ref name=20140901NYTrestricts/> The '']'' claimed that organisers of the Hong Kong protests learned their tactics from supporters of the ] in Taiwan, having first sought support from the United Kingdom and the United States.<ref>{{cite web |script-title=zh:香港佔中 中國怪罪台灣太陽花學運 |trans-title=China blames Sunflower Student Movement for Occupy Central |url=http://news.ltn.com.tw/news/world/breakingnews/1118976 |work=Liberty Times |date=30 September 2014 |language=zh |access-date=5 October 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://opinion.people.com.cn/n/2014/0929/c1003-25761887.html |script-title=zh:没有人比全体中国人更关心香港的前途命运 |trans-title=Nobody cares about Hong Kong's destiny more than all Chinese nationals|work=People's Daily |language=zh |access-date=5 October 2014 }}</ref> Scholarism has been labelled as extremists and a pro-Beijing journal in Hong Kong alleged that Joshua Wong had been cultivated by "US forces".<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/oct/01/joshua-wong-teenager-public-face-hong-kong-protests|title=Joshua Wong: the teenager who is the public face of the Hong Kong protests|newspaper=The Guardian|access-date=12 October 2014|date=October 2014|last1=Branigan|first1=Tania}}</ref> In one of numerous editorials condemning the occupation, the ''People's Daily'' said "The US may enjoy the sweet taste of interfering in other countries' internal affairs, but on the issue of Hong Kong it stands little chance of overcoming the determination of the Chinese government to maintain stability and prosperity".<ref name=quartz281933>{{cite web |url=http://qz.com/281933/the-us-is-no-role-model-in-hong-kongs-democracy-fight/|title=The US is no role model in Hong Kong's democracy fight |last=Timmons |first=Heather |date=19 October 2014 |work=Quartz |access-date=30 November 2014}}</ref> It alleged that the US ] was behind the protests, and that a director of the organisation had met with protest leaders.<ref name="pdaily1">{{cite web|url=http://english.peopledaily.com.cn/n/2014/1011/c98649-8793283.html|title=Why is the US so keen on 'Color Revolutions'?|work=People's Daily|date=11 October 2014|access-date=11 October 2014}}</ref> On 15 October, an unnamed Chinese government official stated that "interference certainly exists", citing "the statements and the rhetoric and the behaviour of the outside forces of political figures, of some parliamentarians and individual media".<ref name=20141015reuters>{{cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/hongkong-china-media-idUSL3N0SA4H120141015|title=China asks foreign media to report Hong Kong unrest "objectively"|work=Reuters|date=15 October 2014|access-date=5 September 2016|archive-date=24 September 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924205357/http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/10/15/hongkong-china-media-idUSL3N0SA4H120141015|url-status=live}}</ref>

In a televised interview on 19 October, Chief Executive CY Leung echoed Chinese claims about foreign responsibility for the protests, but declined to give details until an "appropriate time".<ref name=quartz281933/><ref>Cheng, Kevin (20 October 2014). {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150602013027/http://www.thestandard.com.hk/news_detail.asp?pp_cat=30&art_id=150516&sid=43192998&con_type=1&d_str=20141020&isSearch=1&sear_year=2014 |date=2 June 2015 }}. ''The Standard''</ref> Six months later, on 22 April 2015, a reporter asked Leung, "has that time come yet?" Leung simply responded, "Well, I stand by what I say."<ref>{{cite web|title=Transcript of remarks by CE at media session|url=http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/201504/22/P201504220388.htm|website=Press releases|publisher=Hong Kong Government|access-date=22 April 2015|date=22 April 2015}}</ref> Three years later, Leung had yet to provide the promised substantiation.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.hongkongfp.com/2017/10/29/1103-days-still-waiting-cy-leungs-occupy-foreign-plot-evidence/|title=After 1,103 days we're still waiting: Where is CY Leung's 'Occupy was a foreign plot' evidence?|last=Price|first=David|date=29 October 2017|newspaper=Hong Kong Free Press|access-date=30 October 2017}}</ref>

The ] has categorically rejected accusations of interference, calling the charges "an attempt to distract from...the people expressing their desire for universal suffrage."<ref>{{cite news|url= https://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/oct/11/chinese-paper-blames-us-hong-kong-democracy-protests|title= Chinese state-run paper blames US for Hong Kong democracy protests |date=11 October 2014|access-date=11 October 2014|newspaper= The Guardian |agency= Associated Press }}</ref> The ] characterised claims of foreign interference as "vastly exaggerated",<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.scmp.com/comment/article/1594919/beijings-problem-hong-kong-not-foreign-interference-western-ideas?page=all|title=Beijing's problem in Hong Kong is not foreign interference but Western ideas |last=Lo |first=Alex |date=14 September 2014 |access-date=10 December 2014}}</ref> and longtime Hong Kong democracy advocate ] said such claims were a "'convenient excuse' for Beijing to cover its shame for not granting the territory true democracy as it once promised."<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.latimes.com/world/asia/la-fg-hong-kong-democracy-lee-20141029-story.html|title=Hong Kong democracy stalwart says 'foreign forces' not behind protests|work=Los Angeles Times|date=29 October 2014|access-date=5 September 2016 |first=Echo|last=Hui}}</ref>

The China Media Project of the University of Hong Kong noted that the phrase "hostile forces" ({{lang|zh-hans|敌对势力}}) – a hardline ] term – has been frequently used in a conspiracy theory alleging foreign sources of instigation.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://cmp.hku.hk/2014/10/10/36410/|title=The 'black hands' of Occupy Central|work=China Media Project|date=10 October 2014|access-date=12 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141013024302/http://cmp.hku.hk/2014/10/10/36410/|archive-date=13 October 2014|url-status=dead}}</ref> Apart from being used as a straightforward means to avoid blame, analysts said that Chinese claims of foreign involvement, which may be rooted in Marxist ideology, or simply in an authoritarian belief that "spontaneity is impossible", are "a pre-emptive strike making it very difficult for the American and British governments" to support the protests.<ref name=blame/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1607242/chinese-media-blames-foreigners-over-occupy-protests|title=Chinese media blames foreigners over Occupy protests|work=South China Morning Post|author1=Kristine Kwok |author2=Teddy Ng |date=15 October 2014|access-date=5 September 2016 }}</ref>

=== Law and order ===
On 1 October, China News Service criticised the protesters for "bringing shame to the rule of law in Hong Kong";<ref name=bbc29454443/> the ''People's Daily'' said that the Beijing stance on Hong Kong's elections is "unshakeable" and legally valid. Stating that the illegal occupation was hurting Hong Kong, it warned of "unimaginable consequences"<ref>{{cite web |url=http://paper.people.com.cn/rmrb/html/2014-10/01/nw.D110000renmrb_20141001_5-04.htm?_ga=1.14360959.974976049.1412183977 |script-title=zh:珍惜良好发展局面 维护香港繁荣稳定 |trans-title=Cherish the good situation; Maintain Hong Kong's prosperity and security |date=1 October 2014 |work=People's Daily |language=zh |access-date=5 October 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006110659/http://paper.people.com.cn/rmrb/html/2014-10/01/nw.D110000renmrb_20141001_5-04.htm?_ga=1.14360959.974976049.1412183977 |archive-date=6 October 2014 }}</ref> Some observers remarked that the editorial was similar to the ] that foreshadowed the suppression of the ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://qz.com/274141/beijing-just-sent-a-chilling-message-to-hong-kongs-umbrella-revolution/|title=Beijing just sent a chilling message to Hong Kong's umbrella revolution|work=Quartz|date=October 2014 |access-date=5 October 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-china-29454326|title=Hong Kong protests: Echoes of Tiananmen|publisher=BBC|date=2 October 2014|access-date=5 September 2016}}</ref> A state television editorial urged authorities to "deploy police enforcement decisively" and "restore the social order in Hong Kong as soon as possible," and again warned of "unimaginable consequences",<ref name="cbc.ca">{{cite news|url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/world/china-warns-hong-kong-protesters-of-unimaginable-consequences-1.2783437|title=Hong Kong protesters poised to occupy buildings if leader won't budge|publisher=]|date=1 October 2014|access-date=3 October 2014}}</ref> and a front page commentary in ''People's Daily'' on 3 October repeated that the protests "could lead to deaths and injuries and other grave consequences."<ref name=nyt111/><ref name=death>{{cite web |script-title=zh:人民日报评论员:坚决维护香港的法治 |trans-title=Commentary: Determined to uphold Hong Kong's rule of law |url=http://news.xinhuanet.com/politics/2014-10/03/c_1112710243.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006053202/http://news.xinhuanet.com/politics/2014-10/03/c_1112710243.htm |url-status=dead |archive-date=6 October 2014 |work=People's Daily |language=zh |date=3 October 2014 |access-date=6 October 2014 }}</ref>

By 6 October, official Chinese media outlets called for "all the people to create an anti-Occupy Central atmosphere in the society". The protesters were described as "going against the principle of democracy". A commentary in the ''China Review News'' claimed that "the US is now hesitant in its support for the Occupy Central. If those campaign organisers suddenly soften their approach, it will show that their American masters are giving out a different order."<ref name=harmonious>{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-china-29502144|title=China media: 'Harmonious environment' absent for Hong Kong talks|publisher=BBC|date=6 October 2014|access-date=5 September 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://hk.crntt.com/doc/1034/1/5/3/103415302_2.html?coluid=93&kindid=5771&docid=103415302&mdate=1006000514|script-title=zh:中評:美方應摸清了中方的香港底牌|publisher=中國評論通訊社|language=zh|date=6 October 2014|access-date=6 October 2014}} '''BEWARE: It may contain malware.'''</ref>

Chinese government officials have routinely affirmed the Chinese government's firm support for the chief Executive and for the continued "necessary, reasonable and lawful" actions by the police against the illegal protests.<ref name=20141019guardiankaiman>{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/oct/19/hong-kong-protests-external-forces-blamed|title=Hong Kong protests: 'external forces' blamed by chief executive|newspaper=The Guardian|access-date=31 October 2014|date=19 October 2014|last1=Kaiman|first1=Jonathan}}</ref><ref name=20141015reuters/><ref name=bbc29454443>{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-china-29454443|title=China media defend Hong Kong chief executive|work=BBC News|access-date=31 October 2014|date=2 October 2014}}</ref>

=== Other pronouncements ===
While the Western press noticed the apparent silence of Hong Kong's richest businessmen since the occupation began,<ref>Bradsher, Keith (22 October 2014). . ''The New York Times''.</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.todayonline.com/chinaindia/china/hong-kongs-tycoons-silent-democracy-protests|title=Hong Kong's tycoons silent on democracy protests|work=TODAY|access-date=28 October 2014|archive-date=26 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141026222551/http://www.todayonline.com/chinaindia/china/hong-kongs-tycoons-silent-democracy-protests|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|author =Chu, Kathy |url=http://www.theaustralian.com.au/business/wall-street-journal/great-divide-between-hong-kongs-haves-and-have-nots-fuels-anger/story-fnay3ubk-1227096551065|title=Great divide between Hong Kong's haves and have nots fuels anger |work=The New York Times|date=21 October 2014|access-date=28 October 2014}}</ref> ] posted an English-language article in the morning of 25 October criticising the absence of condemnation of the occupation from the city's tycoons in response to the protest, but the article was deleted several hours later.<ref name="yahootycoon1">{{cite web|url=http://www.881903.com/Page/ZH-TW/newsdetail.aspx?ItemId=756197&csid=261_341 |script-title=zh:新華社晚上報道李嘉誠等富豪反對佔中但刪走批評的文章 |trans-title=Xinhua reports tycoon Li Ka-shing opposing Occupy Central, but silent on critical piece |date=25 October 2014 |publisher=] |access-date=25 October 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141028083109/http://www.881903.com/Page/ZH-TW/newsdetail.aspx?ItemId=756197&csid=261_341 |archive-date=28 October 2014 |url-status=live |language=zh }}</ref><ref name=20141028wsjecho>Chu, Kathy; Law Fiona (28 October 2014). . ''The Wall Street Journal''.</ref> A replacement article that appeared that evening, in Chinese, stated how tycoons strongly condemned the protest, and quoted a number of them with pre-occupation soundbites reiterating how the occupation would damage Hong Kong's international reputation, disrupt social disorder and cause other harmful problems to society.<ref name="yahootycoon1" />

Deputy director of China's ] ], Li Shenming, stated: "In today's China, engaging in an election system of one-man-one-vote is bound to quickly lead to turmoil, unrest and even a situation of civil war."<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-hongkong-china-idUSKCN0HN03Q20140930|title=Hong Kong protests approach potential National Day flashpoint|work=Reuters|author1=Clare Baldwin|author1-link=Clare Baldwin |author2=John Ruwitch|date=30 September 2014|access-date=5 September 2016|archive-date=24 September 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924204918/http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/09/30/us-hongkong-china-idUSKCN0HN03Q20140930|url-status=live}}</ref> The mainland media also contested the protesters' demands for democracy by blaming the colonial rulers, saying Britain "gave our Hong Kong compatriots not one single day of it", notwithstanding the fact that de-classified British diplomatic documents indicate that the lack of democracy since at least late 1950s was largely attributable to the refusal of the PRC to allow it.<ref name=20141028nyt>Jacobs, Andrew (27 Oct 2014). . ''The New York Times''</ref>

The Chinese authorities are rumoured to have blacklisted 47 entertainers from Hong Kong who had openly supported the suffragists, and the list made the rounds on social media.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/chow-yun-fat-beats-jackie-chan-1414622180|title=Chow Yun-Fat Beats Jackie Chan|date=29 October 2014|work=The Wall Street Journal}}</ref> ], ] and actor ], who are among the highest profile supporters of the movement, were strongly criticised by the official Xinhua News Agency.<ref>. ''The New York Times''. 25 October 2014</ref> In response to the possible ban from the Chinese market, ], was quoted as saying "I'll just make less, then". Reporting of Chow's riposte was subject to ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://chinadigitaltimes.net/2014/10/minitrue-chow-yun-fat-banned-mainland/|title=Minitrue: Chow Yun-fat Banned from Mainland|work=China Digital Times |date=28 October 2014}}</ref>

Beijing refused to grant a visa to ], British member of parliament who had said in a parliamentary debate on Hong Kong that Britain had a duty to uphold the principles of the Sino-British joint declaration. This resulted in the cancellation of a visit by a cross-party parliament group due to visit China, led by Peter Mandelson. Graham had also asserted that "Stability for nations is not, in our eyes, about maintaining the status quo regardless, but about reaching out for greater involvement with the people – in this case, of Hong Kong – allowing them a greater say in choosing their leaders and, above all, trusting in the people".<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/nov/24/mps-trip-china-cancelled-beijing-tory|title=MPs' trip to China cancelled after row over Hong Kong protests debate|author =Nicholas Watt|newspaper=The Guardian|access-date=26 November 2014|date=24 November 2014}}</ref>

==Chinese dissent==
In urging students to set aside their protest, ], the former political secretary of CCP general secretary ], said he could not predict what the leadership would do.<ref name="bbc2">{{cite web|script-title=zh:鮑彤籲學生撤離 指假普選背棄鄧小平 |trans-title=Bao Tong tells students to withdraw, says fake universal suffrage betrays Deng Xiaoping |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/zhongwen/trad/china/2014/10/141005_hk_bao_tong_comment |work=BBC News|language=zh |date=5 October 2014 |access-date=5 October 2014 }}</ref> He believed Zhao meant universal suffrage where everyone had the right to vote freely, and not this "special election with Chinese characteristics".<ref name="bbc2" /><ref name="hkej">{{cite web |url=http://www2.hkej.com/instantnews/current/article/910891/%E9%AE%91%E5%BD%A4%E7%B1%B2%E5%AD%B8%E7%94%9F%E6%92%A4%E9%9B%A2%E3%80%80%E6%8C%87%E5%81%87%E6%99%AE%E9%81%B8%E9%81%95%E9%84%A7%E5%B0%8F%E5%B9%B3%E5%8E%9F%E6%84%8F |script-title=zh:鮑彤籲學生撤離 指假普選違鄧小平原意 |trans-title=Bao Tong tells students to withdraw, says fake universal suffrage betrays Deng Xiaoping's intentions |work=Hong Kong Economic Journal |language=zh |date=6 October 2014 |access-date=6 October 2014 |archive-date=11 November 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141111203127/http://www2.hkej.com/instantnews/current/article/910891/%E9%AE%91%E5%BD%A4%E7%B1%B2%E5%AD%B8%E7%94%9F%E6%92%A4%E9%9B%A2%E3%80%80%E6%8C%87%E5%81%87%E6%99%AE%E9%81%B8%E9%81%95%E9%84%A7%E5%B0%8F%E5%B9%B3%E5%8E%9F%E6%84%8F |url-status=dead }}</ref> Bao said today's PRC leaders should respect the principle that Hong Kong citizens rule themselves, or ]'s promises to Hong Kong would have been fake.<ref name="bbc2" /><ref name="hkej" /> ] co-authored an opinion piece for the ''Wall Street Journal'', in which he wrote "China has the potential to become an even more relentless, aggressive dictatorship than Russia... Only a strong, unambiguous warning from the US will cause either of those countries to carefully consider the costs of new violent acts of repression. Hong Kong and Ukraine are calling for the rebirth of American global leadership for freedom and democracy."<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/head-off-a-tiananmen-massacre-in-hong-kong-1411403467|title=Head Off a Tiananmen Massacre in Hong Kong|date=30 September 2014|work=The Wall Street Journal|access-date=8 October 2014}}</ref>

Amnesty International said that at least 37 mainland Chinese have been detained for supporting Hong Kong protesters in different ways: some posted pictures and messages online, others had been planning to travel to Hong Kong to join protesters. A poetry reading planned for 2 October in Beijing's ] to support Hong Kong protesters was disrupted, and a total of eight people were detained. A further 60 people have been taken in for questioning by police.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/poet-detained-ahead-hong-kong-event-26036515|title=8 Detained in China Before Hong Kong Poetry Event|work=ABC News|access-date=9 October 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=Mainland activists held for backing HK protesters|first=Julie|last=Zhu|date=5 October 2014|url=http://www.ejinsight.com/20141007-mainland-activists-held-for-backing-hk-protest/|work=Ejinsight}}</ref> Amnesty reported in February 2015 that at least two of those arrested have been tortured, and nine denied legal representation; one was given access to a lawyer only after being sleep-deprived and tortured for five days. The whereabouts of four are unknown.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.voanews.com/east-asia/amnesty-hong-kong-protest-supporters-tortured-china |title=Amnesty: Hong Kong Protest Supporters Tortured in China |publisher=Voice of America |date=12 February 2015 |access-date=25 September 2019}}</ref>

==Domestic reactions==
]

===Political===
Former Chief Secretary ] expressed disappointment at Britain's silence on the matter and urged Britain to assert its legal and moral responsibility towards Hong Kong and not just think about trade opportunities. Chan dismissed China's accusation of foreign interference, saying: "Nobody from outside could possibly stir up this sort of depth of anger and frustration."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/2014/10/03/former-hong-kong-chief-secretary-anson-chan-demands-britain-acts-over-hong-kong-_n_5929226.html|title=Former Hong Kong Chief Secretary Anson Chan Demands Britain Act Over Hong Kong|date=3 October 2014|work=The Huffington Post UK|access-date=12 October 2014}}</ref> Former Legco president ] said "to support the movement, some protesters background have resources that are supported by foreign forces using young people for a cause. To pursue democracy that effects other people's livelihood is a form of democratic dictatorship."<!-- Different characters used compared to "People's democratic dictatorship" --><ref>{{cite web|url= http://news.now.com/home/hot/player?newsId=114712&hot=1|script-title=zh:范徐麗泰:有人幕後推動佔中|trans-title=Rita Fan: Someone is responsible for promoting Occupy Central from behind the scenes|publisher=Now TV|date=11 October 2014|language=zh|access-date=11 October 2014}}</ref>

Director of ], Law Yuk-kai, was dissatisfied with the unnecessary violence by the police. He said students only broke into the Civic Square to sit-in peacefully with no intentions of destroying government premises.<ref name="oridd">{{cite web |trans-title=Hong Kong Occupy Central to start at dawn |script-title=zh:香港佔中凌晨提前啟動 |url=http://www.orientaldaily.com.my/index.php?option=com_k2&view=item&id=140101:&Itemid=197 |date=9 September 2014 |work=Oriental Daily News |language=zh |location=Malaysia |access-date=7 October 2014 }}</ref> He questioned the mobilisation of ] while protesters staged no conflict. Also, the overuse of ] was underestimated by the police because the weapon could severely harm protesters.<ref name="oridd" /> Contrary to the claims of other pro-establishment members, Tsang sees little evidence of "foreign forces" at play.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asiapacific/no-foreign-forces-behind/1441820.html |title=No foreign forces behind Hong Kong protests: Senior lawmaker |publisher=Channel NewsAsia |access-date=31 October 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141031104423/http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asiapacific/no-foreign-forces-behind/1441820.html |archive-date=31 October 2014 }}</ref> Member of Legislative Council ] of ] said, " was one of the tactics used by the communists in mainland China from time to time. They use triads or pro-government mobs to try to attack you so the government will not have to assume responsibility."<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-china-29609461|title=Hong Kong protests: Police remove more barricades|date=13 October 2014|access-date=13 October 2014}}</ref>

Former Chief Executive ] when urging the students to end the occupation, praised their "great sacrifice" in the pursuit of democracy, and said that "the rule of law and obeying the law form the cornerstone of democracy."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asiapacific/we-ve-heard-your-demands/1399798.html |title=We've heard your demands, Tung Chee-hwa tells HK protesters |publisher=Channel NewsAsia |date=5 October 2014 |access-date=9 October 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141007160531/http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asiapacific/we-ve-heard-your-demands/1399798.html |archive-date=7 October 2014 }}</ref>

On 29 October, chairman of the Financial Services Development Council and Executive Councillor, ], created controversy for the government and for HSBC, of which she is a board member, when she said: "] were liberated in 1861, but did not get voting rights until 107 years later. So why can't Hong Kong wait for a while?" An online petition called for her to apologise and withdraw her remarks. A spokesman for the Executive Council stated in an e-mail on 31 October that "She did not mean any disrespect and regrets that her comment has caused concerns".<ref name=20141031reuters>{{cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-hongkong-china-idUSKBN0IK0DV20141031 |title=Thousands denounce HSBC board member's likening of Hong Kong people to freed slaves |work=Reuters |access-date=4 November 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141229215733/http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/10/31/us-hongkong-china-idUSKBN0IK0DV20141031 |archive-date=29 December 2014 |date=31 October 2014 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thestandard.com.hk/news_detail.asp?we_cat=21&art_id=150907&sid=43259782&con_type=1&d_str=20141030&fc=4 |title=Don't be a slave to reform, says finance figure |work=The Standard |access-date=30 October 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141031154740/http://www.thestandard.com.hk/news_detail.asp?we_cat=21&art_id=150907&sid=43259782&con_type=1&d_str=20141030&fc=4 |archive-date=31 October 2014 }}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://sinosphere.blogs.nytimes.com/2014/10/31/hong-kong-politician-likens-protesters-to-african-american-slaves/|title=Hong Kong Politician Likens Protesters to African-American Slaves|work=The New York Times|author =Siobhan Downes |date=31 October 2014|access-date=5 September 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ejinsight.com/20141030-laura-cha-plays-black-slave-card-against-protesters/|title=Laura Cha plays 'black slave' card against protesters|work=EJ Insight|date=30 October 2014}}</ref>

===Business sector===
The ], whose 3,000 manufacturer members are largely unaffected as manufacturing in Hong Kong has been largely de-localised to the mainland, oppose the protests, due to concerns for the effects on investor confidence.<ref name=20141028wsjecho/> While the business groups have expressed concern at the disruption caused to their members,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/china/2014-10/25/c_127140821.htm|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141029181814/http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/china/2014-10/25/c_127140821.htm|url-status=dead|archive-date=29 October 2014|title=HK business leaders: Occupy Movement damages economy, social order|access-date=31 October 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://thediplomat.com/2014/10/how-to-save-occupy-central/|title=How to Save Occupy Central|author1=Ivana Karásková |author2=Alice Rezková |work=The Diplomat|access-date=31 October 2014}}</ref> the city's wealthiest individuals have kept a relatively low-profile as they faced the dilemma of losing the patronage of CCP leadership while trying to avoid further escalation with overt condemnations of the movement.<ref name=20141028wsjecho/> On the 19th day, ] recognised that students' voices had been noted by Beijing, and urged them to go home "to avoid any regret".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www1.hkej.com/dailynews/headline/article/917112/%E6%9D%8E%E5%98%89%E8%AA%A0%EF%BC%9A%E5%8B%BF%E8%AE%93%E6%BF%80%E6%83%85%E8%AE%8A%E9%81%BA%E6%86%BE|script-title=zh:李嘉誠:勿讓激情變遺憾|trans-title=Li Ka-shing: Do not let passions become regrets |work=Hong Kong Economic Journal|language=zh|date=28 October 2014|access-date=31 October 2014}}</ref> Li was, however, criticised by Xinhua for not being unambiguous in his opposition for the movement and his support for Leung.<ref name=20141028wsjecho/> ], one of the richest men in Asia, appeared to hold a more pro-Beijing stance by stating that "citizens should be thankful to the police".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.etnet.com.hk/www/tc/news/categorized_news_detail.php?newsid=ETN241029539&category=property|title=【佔中局勢】呂志和:年青人不應受有心人唆擺,盡早離開佔領區 |trans-title=Lui Che Woo: Youngsters should not be manipulated by people with ulterior motives and stop Occupy movement early|publisher=ET Net|date=29 October 2014|access-date=31 October 2014}}</ref> Lui was opposed to "any activity that has a negative impact on the Hong Kong economy".<ref name=20141028wsjecho/>

==International reactions==
{{main|Reactions to the 2014 Hong Kong protests}}

===United Nations===
On 23 October, the ], which monitors compliance with the ], urged China to allow free elections in Hong Kong.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dw.de/un-human-rights-panel-chides-china-over-hong-kong/a-18017131|title=UN Human Rights panel chides China over Hong Kong|date=23 October 2014|publisher=Deutsche Welle|access-date=23 October 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2014/10/24/world/asia/un-urges-china-to-allow-free-elections-in-hong-kong.html|title=U.N. Human Rights Panel Urges China To Allow Free Elections in Hong Kong|date=23 October 2014|work=The New York Times|access-date=23 October 2014|first=Michael|last=Forsythe}}</ref> The committee emphasised specifically that 'universal suffrage' includes the right to stand for office as well as the right to vote. Describing China's actions as "not satisfactory", the committee's chairman ] announced that "The main concerns of Committee members were focused on the right to stand for elections without unreasonable restrictions."<ref name=watchdog>{{cite news|url=http://in.reuters.com/article/hongkong-china-un-idINKCN0IC1IQ20141023 |title=U.N. rights watchdog calls for open elections in Hong Kong |date=23 October 2014 |work=Reuters |access-date=23 October 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141204025302/http://in.reuters.com/article/2014/10/23/hongkong-china-un-idINKCN0IC1IQ20141023 |archive-date=4 December 2014 |url-status=dead }}</ref>

A spokesman for China's Foreign Ministry confirmed on the following day that the Covenant, signed by China in 1998, did apply to Hong Kong, but said that, nonetheless, "The covenant is not a measure for Hong Kong's political reform", and that China's policy on Hong Kong's elections had "unshakable legal status and effect". ''Reuters'' observed that "It was not immediately clear how, if the covenant applied to Hong Kong, it could have no bearing on its political reform."<ref name=covenant>{{cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-china-hongkong-un-idUSKCN0ID14U20141024 |title=China says U.N. rights covenant no measure for Hong Kong reform |work=Reuters |date=24 October 2014 |access-date=5 September 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141216094453/http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/10/24/us-china-hongkong-un-idUSKCN0ID14U20141024 |archive-date=16 December 2014 |url-status=live }}</ref>

===States===
Many countries, including Australia, Canada, France, Spain, Germany, Italy, Japan, Taiwan, Vatican City, United Kingdom, and the United States, supported the protesters' right to protest and their cause of universal suffrage and urged restraint on all sides, with the notable exception of Russia, whose state media claimed that the protests were another West-sponsored colour revolution similar to the ].<ref name=blame>{{cite news|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/anne-applebaum-chinas-familiar-bogeyman-for-the-hong-kong-protests/2014/10/03/d883ac5e-4b3a-11e4-891d-713f052086a0_story.html |title=China's explanation for the Hong Kong protests? Blame America. |newspaper=The Washington Post |author=Anne Applebaum |access-date=5 September 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150102054423/http://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/anne-applebaum-chinas-familiar-bogeyman-for-the-hong-kong-protests/2014/10/03/d883ac5e-4b3a-11e4-891d-713f052086a0_story.html |archive-date=2 January 2015 |date=3 October 2014 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/russian-state-media-portray-hong-kong-protests-as-u-s-plot-1412103539|title=Russian State Media Portray Hong Kong Protests as U.S. Plot|date=30 September 2014|work=The Wall Street Journal|access-date=3 October 2014|first=Paul|last=Sonne}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/hongkong/11131070/Russian-state-television-says-Britain-and-US-provoked-Hong-Kong-protests.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220112/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/hongkong/11131070/Russian-state-television-says-Britain-and-US-provoked-Hong-Kong-protests.html |archive-date=12 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live|title=Russian state television says Britain and US provoked Hong Kong protests|date=30 September 2014|work=The Daily Telegraph|access-date=3 October 2014|location=London|first=Tom|last=Parfitt}}{{cbignore}}</ref> German president ], celebrating the 24th anniversary of ], praised the spirit of Hong Kong's suffragists to their own of 24 years ago who overcame their fear of their oppressors;<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.businessinsider.com/afp-sea-of-candles-marks-magical-rally-that-shook-berlin-wall-2014-10|title=Sea of candles marks 'magical' rally that shook Berlin Wall|date=9 October 2014|work=Business Insider|access-date=8 November 2014|archive-date=18 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141018133520/http://www.businessinsider.com/afp-sea-of-candles-marks-magical-rally-that-shook-berlin-wall-2014-10|url-status=dead}}</ref>

British Prime Minister ] expressed deep concern about clashes in Hong Kong and said that he felt an obligation to the ].<ref name="UK">{{cite news|url=http://news.sky.com/story/1344068/hong-kong-china-warns-uk-not-to-interfere|title=Hong Kong: China Warns UK Not To 'Interfere'|publisher=Sky News|date=29 September 2014|access-date=29 September 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-hongkong-china-britain-idUKKCN0HP0JH20140930|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160207154513/http://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-hongkong-china-britain-idUKKCN0HP0JH20140930|url-status=dead|archive-date=7 February 2016|title=Cameron says deeply concerned about Hong Kong clashes|work=Reuters|access-date=3 October 2014|first=Guy|last=Faulconbridge|date=30 September 2014}}</ref> Cameron said on 15 October that Britain should stand up for the rights set out in the ].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-hongkong-china-britain-idUKKCN0I41C620141015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151219134456/http://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-hongkong-china-britain-idUKKCN0I41C620141015|url-status=dead|archive-date=19 December 2015|title=PM Cameron says Britain should stand up for Hong Kong rights|work=Reuters|access-date=15 October 2014|first=William|last=James|date=15 October 2014}}</ref> The ] called on Hong Kong to uphold residents' rights to demonstrate, and said that the best way to guarantee these rights is through transition to universal suffrage.<ref>{{cite news|title=Hong Kong protests: UK 'concerned' about situation|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-29411128|access-date=30 September 2014|work=BBC News}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Foreign Office monitoring events in Hong Kong|url=https://www.gov.uk/government/news/foreign-office-monitoring-events-in-hong-kong|website=Government of the United Kingdom|access-date=30 September 2014}}</ref> Former Hong Kong Governor and current Chancellor of the University of Oxford ] expressed support for the protests<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1630216/chris-patten-accepts-umbrella-and-reportedly-praises-democracy?page=all|title=Chris Patten accepts umbrella, and reportedly praises democracy protesters|work=South China Morning Post|access-date=4 November 2014|date=November 2014}}</ref> and denounced the Iranian-style democratic model for the city.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/chris-patten-with-hong-kong-chinas-honor-is-at-stake/2014/10/02/ebc4e9b2-4a5f-11e4-a046-120a8a855cca_story.html|title= What China promised Hong Kong |newspaper=The Washington Post|date=3 October 2014|access-date=7 October 2014|first=Chris|last=Patten}}</ref> Citing China's obligation to Britain to adhere to the terms of Sino-British Joint Declaration,<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-11-04/last-hong-kong-governor-urges-concessions-to-protesters.html|title=Last Hong Kong Governor Urges Concessions to Protesters|author =Robert Hutton|date=5 November 2014|work=Bloomberg}}</ref> he urged the British government to put greater pressure on the Chinese state, and to help China and Hong Kong find a solution to the impasse.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/nov/05/britain-soft-on-china-over-hong-kong-crisis-says-chris-patten|title=Britain soft on China over Hong Kong crisis, says Chris Patten|newspaper=The Guardian|date=5 November 2014}}</ref> The Chinese Foreign Ministry said Patten should realise that "times have changed",<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.straitstimes.com/news/asia/east-asia/story/times-have-changed-china-tells-chris-patten-hong-kongs-last-british-govern|title='Times have changed' China tells Chris Patten, Hong Kong's last British governor|newspaper=The Straits Times|date=5 November 2014}}</ref> and that no party had the right to interfere in China's domestic affairs.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.881903.com/Page/ZH-TW/newsdetail.aspx?ItemId=758531&csid=261_341|trans-title=Beijing refutes Chris Patten; demands to stop meddling in Occupy Central protests|title=北京駁斥彭定康促停慫恿佔中言行|publisher=]}}</ref>

British member of parliament and chairman of the Commons Parliamentary Committee on Foreign Affairs, ], denounced China's declaration that the committee would be refused permission to enter Hong Kong on their planned visit in late December as part of their inquiry into progress of the implementation of the Sino-British Joint Declaration. Ottaway sought confirmation from the China's deputy ambassador after receiving a letter from the central government that his group's visit "would be perceived to be siding with the protesters involved in Occupy Central and other illegal activities", and was told that the group would be turned back.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/hongkong/11263799/British-MP-attacks-confrontational-China-as-Hong-Kong-protests-escalate.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220112/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/hongkong/11263799/British-MP-attacks-confrontational-China-as-Hong-Kong-protests-escalate.html |archive-date=12 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live|title=British MP attacks 'confrontational' China as Hong Kong protests escalate|date=30 November 2014|work=The Daily Telegraph|location=London|first=Tom|last=Phillips}}{{cbignore}}</ref>

In Taiwan, the situation in Hong Kong is closely monitored since China aims to ] with a "]" model similar to one that is used in Hong Kong.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-29422233|title=Why Taiwan is watching Hong Kong protests|publisher=BBC|date=30 September 2014|access-date=26 October 2014}}</ref> President ] expressed concern for the developments in Hong Kong and its future,<ref name="talktoAJ">{{cite news|url=http://www.aljazeera.com/programmes/talktojazeera/2014/09/ma-ying-jeou-an-inexplicable-fear-201492613134516309.html|title=Ma Ying-jeou: 'One country, one system'|publisher=Al Jazeera|date=29 September 2014|access-date=30 September 2014}}</ref> and said the realisation of universal suffrage will be a win-win scenario for both Hong Kong and mainland China.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Huang|first1=Kelven|last2=Low|first2=Y.F.|title=Ma urges Beijing to listen to Hong Kongers' voices|url=http://focustaiwan.tw/search/201409290010.aspx?q=president|access-date=2 October 2014|agency=Central News Agency|date=29 September 2014}}</ref> On 10 October, Taiwan's ], President Ma urged China to introduce constitutional democracy, saying "now that the 1.3&nbsp;billion people on the mainland have become moderately wealthy, they will of course wish to enjoy greater democracy and rule of law. Such a desire has never been a monopoly of the west, but is the right of all humankind."<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/oct/10/taiwan-ma-ying-jeou-china-hong-kong-democratic-first|title=Taiwan urges China to let Hong Kong 'go democratic'|newspaper=The Guardian|date=10 October 2014|access-date=5 September 2016|agency=Agence France-Presse}}</ref> In response to Ma's comments, China's ] said Beijing was "firmly opposed to remarks on China's political system and Hong Kong's political reforms .... Taiwan should refrain from commenting on the issue."<ref>{{cite news|title=Taiwan hopes China sees good will in 10/10 address|url=http://www.chinapost.com.tw/taiwan/china-taiwan-relations/2014/10/17/419653/Taiwan-hopes.htm|date=17 October 2014|work=China Post|access-date=26 October 2014}}</ref>

===Foreign media===
]
The protests captured the attention of the world and gained extensive global media coverage.<ref name=20141212eji>{{cite web|url=http://www.ejinsight.com/20141212-beijing-pleased-at-end-of-protest-but-angry-over-its-legacy/|title=Beijing pleased at end of HK protest but angry over its legacy|work=EJ Insight|date=12 December 2014}}</ref> Student leader Joshua Wong featured on the cover of ''Time'' magazine during the week of his 18th birthday,<ref>{{cite magazine|url=https://time.com/3482556/hong-kong-protest-teenagers/|title=Hong Kong's Protest: Meet the Voice of a Generation|author =Hannah Beech / Hong Kong|magazine=Time|access-date=8 November 2014|date=8 October 2014}}</ref> and the movement was written about, also as a cover story, the following week.<ref>{{cite magazine|url=https://time.com/3453736/hong-kong-stands-up/|title=Hong Kong Protests: Why Democracy Fight Is a Challenge for China|author =Hannah Beech|magazine=Time|access-date=8 November 2014|date=1 October 2014}}</ref> While the local pan-democrats and the majority of the Western press supported the protesters' aspirations for universal suffrage,<ref name=20141212eji/> ], writing for '']'', argued that the PRC had "overwhelmingly honoured its commitment to the principle of one country, two systems". He believed that the reason for the unrest is "the growing sense of dislocation among a section of Hong Kong's population" since 1997.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2014/sep/30/china-hong-kong-future-protesters-cry-democracy|title=China is Hong Kong's future – not its enemy|newspaper=The Guardian|access-date=9 October 2014|date=30 September 2014|last1=Jacques|first1=Martin}}</ref> Tim Summers, in an op-ed for CNN, said that the protests were fuelled by dissatisfaction with the Hong Kong government, but the catalyst was the decision of the NPCSC. Criticising politicians' and the media's interpretation of the agreements and undertakings of the PRC, Summers said "all the Joint Declaration said is that the chief executive will be 'appointed by the central people's government on the basis of the results of elections or consultations to be held locally .' Britain's role as co-signatory of that agreement gives it no legal basis for complaint on this particular point, and the lack of democracy for the ] leaves it little moral high ground either."<ref>{{cite news|url=http://edition.cnn.com/2014/10/07/opinion/hong-kong-britain-china-summers/index.html |title=Hong Kong in crisis: Role of the UK|date=8 October 2014|publisher=CNN|access-date=9 October 2014}}</ref>

== Aftermath ==
Once traffic resumed, roadside ] readings rose back up to levels in excess of ] recommended safe levels of 25&nbsp;]/m³. According to the Clean Air Network, PM2.5 levels at Admiralty stood at 33&nbsp;μg/m³, an increase of 83% since during the occupation; Causeway Bay measured 31&nbsp;μg/m³, an increase of 55%, and Mong Kok's reading of 37&nbsp;μg/m<sup>3</sup> represents an increase of 42%.<ref name= 20141216appledaily>{{cite web|url=http://hk.apple.nextmedia.com/realtime/news/20141216/53236902|title=3佔領區「回復正常」 空氣懸浮粒子勁超標|work=Apple Daily|language=zh|access-date=16 December 2014|archive-date=16 December 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141216184451/http://hk.apple.nextmedia.com/realtime/news/20141216/53236902|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name=20141217scmp>{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1663503/hello-pollution-toxic-pm25-levels-rise-again-after-hong-kong-clears|title=Hong Kong's air quality falls after Occupy clearance puts traffic back on the roads|date=17 December 2014|work=South China Morning Post}}</ref> The former director of the government archives, ], expressed concern about preservation of official documents pertaining to the protest movement, and was seeking a proxy to file an injunction on the government. He feared that the absence of a law on official archives in Hong Kong meant that senior government officials may seek to destroy all documents involving deliberations, decisions and actions taken while the protests were ongoing.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hkbc.tv/articles/10231|title=前檔案處長擬申請禁制令 阻特首銷佔領公文 |publisher=hkbc.tv|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150122055238/http://www.hkbc.tv/articles/10231|archive-date=22 January 2015}}</ref>

Chief Executive CY Leung said that protesters need to carefully consider what sort of democracy they are pursuing.<ref name=20141216rthk>{{cite web|url=http://rthk.hk/rthk/news/englishnews/news.htm?hightlight&20141216&56&1061832|title=Police to probe instigators of Occupy movement|publisher=RTHK English News|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141217061530/http://rthk.hk/rthk/news/englishnews/news.htm?hightlight&20141216&56&1061832|archive-date=17 December 2014}}</ref> He welcomed the end of the occupation, saying: "Other than economic losses, I believe the greatest loss Hong Kong society has suffered is the damage to the rule of law by a small group of people... If we just talk about democracy without talking about the rule of law, it's not real democracy but a state of no government".<ref>AFP, {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141217063849/http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asiapacific/hk-leader-declares-occupy/1529772.html |date=17 December 2014 }}. Channel NewsAsia, 15 December 2014</ref> Leung saw his popularity ratings slump to a new low following the occupation protests, down to 39.7 per cent, with a net of minus 37%. This was attributed to public perception of Leung's unwillingness to heal the wounds, and his unwarranted{{According to whom|date=February 2016}} shifting of the blame for the wrongs in society onto opponents. Leung also claimed negative effects on the economy without providing evidence, and his assertions were contradicted by official figures.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Yeung|first1=SC|title=As Occupy ends, CY Leung performance rating falls|url=http://www.ejinsight.com/20141217-as-occupy-ends-cy-leung-performance-rating-falls/|access-date=25 December 2014|publisher=ejinsight.com|date=17 December 2014}}</ref> On 19 December 2014, the eve of the 15th anniversary of Macau's handover, authorities in Macau banned journalists covering the arrival of Chinese leader Xi Jinping from holding umbrellas in the rain.<ref>{{cite news|title=Journalists barred from holding umbrellas|url=http://rthk.hk/rthk/news/englishnews/20141219/news_20141219_56_1062793.htm|access-date=25 December 2014|agency=RTHK|date=19 December 2014|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141219182654/http://rthk.hk/rthk/news/englishnews/20141219/news_20141219_56_1062793.htm|archive-date=19 December 2014}}</ref>

Commissioner of the Police Andy Tsang confirmed the unprecedented challenges to the police posed by the occupations, and that as at 15 December a total of 955 individuals had been arrested,<ref name=20141216rthk/><ref name=20141216hks/> 221 activists had been hurt, and that 130 police officers had received light injuries.<ref name=20141216hks>Cheng, Kevin; Lau, Kenneth (16 December 2014) {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141217065447/http://www.thestandard.com.hk/news_detail.asp?pp_cat=30&art_id=152398&sid=43546869&con_type=1&d_str=20141216&isSearch=1&sear_year=2014 |date=17 December 2014 }}. ''The Standard''</ref> At the same time, Tsang anticipated further arrests, pending a three-month investigation into the occupation movement.<ref name=20141216hks/> Most activists call in under arrest by appointment remain to be formally charged, and although police said that they reserved the right to prosecute, pro-democracy legislators complained that the uncertain impending prosecution hangs over the interviewees constituted an act of intimidation.<ref> {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150305012328/http://www.thestandard.com.hk/breaking_news_detail.asp?id=57830&icid=3&d_str=20150302 |date=5 March 2015 }}. ''The Standard'', 2 March 2015</ref>

Although the occupations had ended, aggressive policing that became a hallmark of the official antipathy towards peaceful protests continued – as illustrated by police application for Care and Protection Orders (CPO) for two young suffragists in December 2014.<ref name=scmp1678899/> Typically, CPOs are only used in severe cases of ], and could lead to the minor being sent to a children's home and removed from parental custody.<ref name=scmp1678899/> Police arrested one 14-year-old male for contempt of court during the clearance of Mong Kok and applied for a CPO.<ref name=scmp1678899/><ref>{{Cite news|url = https://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-12-17/schoolboy-may-lose-parents-as-repercussions-dawn-in-hong-kong.html|title = Schoolboy May Lose Parents as Repercussions Dawn in Hong Kong|date = 18 December 2014|access-date = 18 December 2014|publisher = Bloomberg L.P.|last = Khan|first = Natasha}}</ref> The CPO was cancelled four weeks later when the Department of Justice decided that they would not prosecute.<ref name=scmp1678899>{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1678899/police-wont-seek-protection-order-hong-kong-teen-arrested-during|title=Police won't seek protection order for Hong Kong teen arrested during Occupy clearance|work=South China Morning Post|last=Lau|first=Chris|date=12 January 2015}}</ref>

In a second case, a 14-year-old female who drew a chalk flower onto the ] on 23 December 2014 was arrested on suspicion of criminal damage, detained by police for 17 hours, and then held against her will in a children's home for 20 days, but was never charged with any crime.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Wong |first1=Vicky |title=Teen arrested for drawing with chalk on wall at Hong Kong protest site |date=31 December 2014 |url=https://edition.cnn.com/2014/12/31/world/asia/hong-kong-chalk-girl-protests |publisher=CNN |access-date=12 July 2019}}</ref> A magistrate decided in favour of a CPO pursuant to a police application, deeming it "safer." The incident created uproar as she was taken away from her hearing-impaired father, and was unable to go to school.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1671621/hong-kong-teen-who-scribbled-pro-democracy-wall-sent-childrens-home |title=Girl, 14 who drew flower on Hong Kong's 'Lennon Wall' sent to Children's Home|date=31 December 2014|access-date=31 December 2014|agency=Agence France-Presse}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://edition.cnn.com/2014/12/31/world/asia/hong-kong-chalk-girl-protests/index.html |title=Teen arrested for drawing with chalk on wall at Hong Kong protest site|date=31 December 2014|publisher=CNN|access-date=12 January 2015}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1672598/detention-occupy-linked-teen-graffiti-suspect-raises-doubts|title=Girl sent to children's home for drawing flowers on Occupy's 'Lennon Wall' freed after outcry|date=1 January 2015|access-date=1 January 2015|work=South China Morning Post|last=Chu|first=Julie}}</ref> On 19 January, another magistrate rescinded the protection order<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asiapacific/hong-kong-protest/1599574.html |title=Hong Kong protest 'graffiti teen' allowed to stay with family |publisher=Channel NewsAsia |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402103955/http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asiapacific/hong-kong-protest/1599574.html |archive-date=2 April 2015 }}</ref> for the girl–now commonly known as "Chalk Girl" (])–however overall handling of the situation by police and government officials raised broad concerns. There is no official explanation as to why proper procedures were not followed or as to why, in accordance with regulations, social workers were never consulted before applying for the order.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1681845/chalk-girl-who-drew-occupy-lennon-wall-court-refuses-child-protection|title=Chalk Girl who drew on Occupy 'Lennon Wall' released as court refuses to put her in children's home|date=19 January 2015|access-date=19 January 2015|work=South China Morning Post|last=Chu|first=Julie}}</ref> The controversy gained international attention, and ] produced a short documentary film about her story, titled "The Infamous Chalk Girl" which was released in 2017.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Young |first1=San San F. |title=The Infamous Chalk Girl |url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/ng-interactive/2017/jun/16/chalk-girl-hong-kong-democracy-umbrella-movement-protester-china |website=The Guardian |date=16 June 2017 |access-date=10 July 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Young |first1=San San F. |title=The Infamous Chalk Girl |url=https://vimeo.com/218950062 |via=Vimeo |work=The Guardian |date=25 May 2017 |access-date=10 July 2019}}</ref> Usage of the protection orders against minors involved in the ] was seen as "white terror" to deter young people from protesting.<ref name=scmp1678899/>

=== Post mortems ===
The '']'' predicts a rout as a result of growing alienation and disaffection with the system and with traditional politics. It criticised the means the government employed to deal with the problem, and said that: " legitimacy to govern has been deeply damaged. Officials may be made scapegoats for the mass protests, and the police may have forfeited much of their hard-earned reputation and sound relationship with citizens following charges of brutality and links with triads. The judiciary has also taken a beating after it issued injunctions against the occupation of roads in Mong Kok and Admiralty. This has left many people with the perception that it has colluded with the government and the checks and balances between the two powers are now gone. The government's ill-conceived plan to crack down hard on the protesters under the guise of assisting bailiffs sets a dangerous precedent."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ejinsight.com/20141215-umbrella-movement-who-are-the-winners-and-losers/|title=Umbrella Movement: Who are the winners and losers?|work=EJ Insight|date=15 December 2014}}</ref>

An editorial in ''The Wall Street Journal'' said that despite the establishment attempting to portray the occupy movement as a threat to Hong Kong, "it's clear that the real threat to Hong Kong comes from those who bend to Beijing's whims. China and its local proxies ... have mounted a violent march through the institutions that have sustained Hong Kong's stability and prosperity—independent courts, free press, honest law enforcement and more".<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/strangling-free-hong-kong-1418344780|title=Strangling Free Hong Kong|date=12 December 2014|work=The Wall Street Journal}}</ref> An editorial in the ''Washington Post'' predicted that "Political unrest is likely to become a chronic condition in a place that until now had mostly accepted the authority of the Communist regime since 1997... China's inflexible response to the democracy movement may yield exactly the results it wishes to avoid: an unmanageable political situation in Hong Kong and the spread of the demand for political freedom".<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/actions-by-china-in-hong-kong-may-create-a-long-term-movement/2014/11/27/333e95cc-758f-11e4-9d9b-86d397daad27_story.html|title=China's crackdown in Hong Kong may fuel a long-term democracy movement|newspaper=The Washington Post |author=Editorial Board|date=27 November 2014}}</ref>

A ''Guardian'' editorial wrote: "What China has done in Hong Kong will preserve control but deepen alienation... outside China, where it is seen as yet another indication that compromise and the Chinese communist party are strangers to each other, whether in dealing with non-Han minorities, in territorial issues with neighbours or in relations with other major states." It said that the one country, two systems formula "has been almost completely discredited by events in Hong Kong". It added that "The Chinese are prisoners of another narrative, in which China's rise is a phenomenon benefiting its neighbours as much as itself, in which opponents are seen as a tiny minority manipulated by hostile powers, and in which democracy is a flawed western concept that has no relevance for China".<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2014/dec/01/guardian-view-on-the-continuing-protests-in-hong-kong?CMP=share_btn_fb|title=The Guardian view on the continuing protests in Hong Kong|author =Editorial|newspaper=The Guardian|date=December 2014}}</ref>

''Business Spectator'' described the mixed legacy of the resilient protest community that has been created and galvanisation of youth – a previously apolitical section of society – into political activism or heightened awareness of their civil rights and responsibilities. Against that, the resulting divisions in Hong Kong society will leave a void for Beijing to strengthen its role and influence.<ref name=20141215bspectator/> The journal also agreed that Hong Kong's institutions had been damaged through government actions as well as inaction. Citing the government and police choice to employ civil injunctions to justify clearing the protest sites, it said "In so doing, the government has called the court system into service as a political tool. This politicisation of the court system is known as 'rule by law', a phrase frequently applied to the PRC and which could now be used for the first time with some justification in the context of Hong Kong." It further predicts further erosion of press and academic freedoms, as universities have been shown to be seed beds of political activism and potential subversion.<ref name=20141215bspectator/>

An article in the ''Journal of Chinese Political Science'' notes how the Umbrella Revolution was an instance of "defensive ]" and that "through the mounting of this defence, certain state-sanctioned images of China are reinforced and promoted. Specifically, these include promoting images that depict China as a victim; portraying China as a reasonable and restraint power; constructing the image of wide support for China's handling of the event and of its of governance; and promoting the perception of strong relations between Macau/Taiwan and the mainland. It contends that these state-aligned images were released defensively to counter the attacks by the western media and this process allowed the Central authorities an opportunity to reinforce and articulate its national images."<ref>{{Cite journal|last=Loh|first=Dylan|date=1 March 2017|title=Defending China's National Image and 'Defensive Soft Power': the Case of Hong Kong's 'Umbrella Revolution'|journal=Journal of Chinese Political Science|volume=22|issue=1|pages=117–134|doi=10.1007/s11366-016-9419-x|issn=1080-6954|doi-access=free}}</ref>

== Imprisonment of prominent protesters ==
{{main|2017 imprisonment of Hong Kong democracy activists}}
Wong, along with two other prominent Hong Kong pro-democracy student leaders ] and ], were sentenced to six to eight months' imprisonment, on 17 August 2017, for unlawful assembly (Wong and Law) and incitement to assemble unlawfully (Chow) at ], at the ] in the ] site, during the protest. The sentences were likely to impair their political careers as they would be barred from running for public office for five years.<ref name="halted">{{cite news|last1=Siu|first1=Jasmine|title=Joshua Wong and other jailed Hong Kong student leaders see political careers halted|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/politics/article/2107216/occupy-activists-joshua-wong-and-nathan-law-jailed-hong-kong|work=South China Morning Post|date=17 August 2017}}</ref> Earlier, on 15 August 2017, 13 fellow protesters were sentenced to terms between 8 and 13 months for unlawful assembly.<ref>{{cite news |last=Lau |first=Chris |date=16 August 2017 |title=Why were 13 Hong Kong protesters jailed, and what does this mean for future demonstrations? |url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/law-crime/article/2106976/why-were-13-hong-kong-protesters-jailed-and-what-does-mean |work=South China Morning Post |access-date=7 October 2017}}</ref>

== Nobel Peace Prize nomination==

On 5 October 2017 the ] (CECC) Chair US Senator ] and co-chair US Representative ] announced their intention to nominate ], ], ] and the entire Umbrella Movement for the ], for "their peaceful efforts to bring political reform and protect the autonomy and freedoms guaranteed Hong Kong in the Sino-British Joint Declaration".<ref>{{cite news |date=5 October 2017 |title=Chairs Release 2017 Annual Report—Announce New Initiatives on Hong Kong & Commemoration of Liu Xiaobo |url=https://www.cecc.gov/media-center/press-releases/chairs-release-2017-annual-report |website=Congressional-Executive Commission on China |location=Washington, DC |access-date= 7 October 2017 }}</ref>

==See also==
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]


== References == == References ==
=== Notes===
{{Reflist|2}}
{{reflist}}

=== Sources ===
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{{refbegin|30em}}
*{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1602958/live-occupy-central-kicks-hundreds-classroom-boycott-students-leave |title=OCCUPY CENTRAL – THE FIRST 12 HOURS: Full report as events unfolded |work=South China Morning Post |ref=dayone |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150102234108/http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1602958/live-occupy-central-kicks-hundreds-classroom-boycott-students-leave |archive-date=2 January 2015 |url-status=live |date=15 November 2018 }}
*{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1603762/live-severe-disruption-expected-day-dawns-occupied-hong-kong |title=OCCUPY CENTRAL – DAY TWO: Full report of the day's events |work=South China Morning Post |ref=daytwo |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150116231416/http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1603762/live-severe-disruption-expected-day-dawns-occupied-hong-kong |archive-date=16 January 2015 |url-status=live |date=17 November 2018 }}
*{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1604030/live-report-tens-thousands-occupy-hong-kongs-streets-second-night |title=OCCUPY CENTRAL – NIGHT TWO: Full report of all the night's events |work=South China Morning Post |ref=nighttwo |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150103173458/http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1604030/live-report-tens-thousands-occupy-hong-kongs-streets-second-night |archive-date=3 January 2015 |url-status=live |date=29 September 2014 }}
*{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/article/1604385/live-protester-numbers-dwindle-military-aircraft-spotted-over-hong-kong-harbour |title=OCCUPY CENTRAL – DAY THREE: Full report of the day's events |work=South China Morning Post |ref=daythree |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150118014506/http://www.scmp.com/article/1604385/live-protester-numbers-dwindle-military-aircraft-spotted-over-hong-kong-harbour |archive-date=18 January 2015 |url-status=live |date=16 November 2018 }}
*{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1604648/live-thunder-rain-fail-dampen-spirits-hong-kong-democracy-protesters |title=OCCUPY CENTRAL – NIGHT THREE: Full coverage of all the night's events |work=South China Morning Post |ref=nightthree |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150103174759/http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1604648/live-thunder-rain-fail-dampen-spirits-hong-kong-democracy-protesters |archive-date=3 January 2015 |url-status=live |date=30 September 2014 }}
*{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1605202/live-tensions-rising-wan-chai-occupy-protesters-gather-ahead-national |title=OCCUPY CENTRAL – DAY FOUR: Full coverage of all the day's events |date=1 October 2014 |work=South China Morning Post |ref=dayfour |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150105001904/http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1605202/live-tensions-rising-wan-chai-occupy-protesters-gather-ahead-national |archive-date=5 January 2015 |url-status=live }}
*{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1606266/live-thousands-hit-streets-occupy-central-enters-fourth-night |title=OCCUPY CENTRAL – NIGHT FOUR: Full coverage of all the night's events |date=1 October 2014 |work=South China Morning Post |ref=nightfour |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150103174805/http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1606266/live-thousands-hit-streets-occupy-central-enters-fourth-night |archive-date=3 January 2015 |url-status=live }}
*{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/article/1607466/live-deadline-approaches-cy-leungs-resignation-protests-enter-fifth-day |title=OCCUPY CENTRAL – DAY FIVE: Full coverage of the day's events |date=2 October 2014 |work=South China Morning Post |ref=dayfive |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150103171444/http://www.scmp.com/article/1607466/live-deadline-approaches-cy-leungs-resignation-protests-enter-fifth-day |archive-date=3 January 2015 |url-status=live }}
*{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1608000/live-police-arm-government-hq-protesters-deadline-cy-leung-quit-looms |title=OCCUPY CENTRAL – NIGHT FIVE: Full coverage of the night's events |date=2 October 2014 |work=South China Morning Post |ref=nightfive |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150102222629/http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1608000/live-police-arm-government-hq-protesters-deadline-cy-leung-quit-looms |archive-date=2 January 2015 |url-status=live }}
*{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1608680/live-student-protesters-await-dialogue-date-lung-wo-road-open-traffic |title=OCCUPY CENTRAL – DAY SIX: Full coverage of the day's events |date=3 October 2014 |work=South China Morning Post |ref=daysix |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150102212804/http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1608680/live-student-protesters-await-dialogue-date-lung-wo-road-open-traffic |archive-date=2 January 2015 |url-status=live }}
*{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1608996/live-police-struggle-keep-order-street-fights-break-out-mong-kok |title=OCCUPY CENTRAL – NIGHT SIX: Full coverage of the night's events |date=3 October 2014 |work=South China Morning Post |ref=nightsix |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150105001910/http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1608996/live-police-struggle-keep-order-street-fights-break-out-mong-kok |archive-date=5 January 2015 |url-status=live }}
*{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/article/1609275/live-19-arrested-18-injured-after-triads-attack-mong-kok-protest-site-friday |title=OCCUPY CENTRAL – DAY SEVEN: Full coverage of the day's events |date=4 October 2014 |work=South China Morning Post |ref=dayseven |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150102170204/http://www.scmp.com/article/1609275/live-19-arrested-18-injured-after-triads-attack-mong-kok-protest-site-friday |archive-date=2 January 2015 |url-status=live }}
*{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1609580/live-chinese-university-urges-students-leave-thousands-gather |title=OCCUPY CENTRAL – NIGHT SEVEN: Full coverage of the night's events |date=4 October 2014 |work=South China Morning Post |ref=nightseven |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150102193647/http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1609580/live-chinese-university-urges-students-leave-thousands-gather |archive-date=2 January 2015 |url-status=live }}
*{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1609926/live-occupy-couple-get-engaged-dawn-protest-enters-day-eight |title=OCCUPY CENTRAL – DAY EIGHT: Full coverage of the day's events |date=5 October 2014 |work=South China Morning Post |ref=dayeight |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150102001049/http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1609926/live-occupy-couple-get-engaged-dawn-protest-enters-day-eight |archive-date=2 January 2015 |url-status=live }}
*{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1610063/live-occupy-protest-factions-announce-they-will-withdraw-key-sites |title=OCCUPY CENTRAL – NIGHT EIGHT: Full coverage of the night's events |date=5 October 2014 |work=South China Morning Post |ref=nighteight |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150104232754/http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1610063/live-occupy-protest-factions-announce-they-will-withdraw-key-sites |archive-date=4 January 2015 |url-status=live }}
*{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1610472/live-students-prepare-dialogue-hong-kongs-commuters-rush-work-early |title=OCCUPY CENTRAL – DAY NINE: Full coverage of the day's events |date=6 October 2014 |work=South China Morning Post |ref=daynine |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150204064737/http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1610472/live-students-prepare-dialogue-hong-kongs-commuters-rush-work-early |archive-date=4 February 2015 |url-status=live }}
*{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1611027/mainland-lawyers-show-support-reform-protests-continue-outside |title=OCCUPY CENTRAL – NIGHT NINE: Full coverage of the night's events |date=6 October 2014 |work=South China Morning Post |ref=nightnine |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141231155303/http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1611027/mainland-lawyers-show-support-reform-protests-continue-outside |archive-date=31 December 2014 |url-status=live }}
*{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1611212/live-hong-kong-protests-enter-tenth-day-dialogue-talks-drag |title=OCCUPY CENTRAL – DAY 10: Full coverage of the day's events |date=7 October 2014 |work=South China Morning Post |ref=dayten |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150127142021/http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1611212/live-hong-kong-protests-enter-tenth-day-dialogue-talks-drag |archive-date=27 January 2015 |url-status=live }}
*{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1611911/live-remaining-occupy-protesters-wary-government-dialogue-set-friday |title=OCCUPY CENTRAL – DAY 11: Full coverage of the day's events |date=8 October 2014 |work=South China Morning Post |ref=dayeleven |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150102193106/http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1611911/live-remaining-occupy-protesters-wary-government-dialogue-set-friday |archive-date=2 January 2015 |url-status=live }}
*{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1612602/live-democracy-advocates-urge-unity-occupy-movement-enters-12th-day |title=OCCUPY CENTRAL – DAY 12: Full coverage of the day's events |date=9 October 2014 |work=South China Morning Post |ref=daytwelve |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150120184730/http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1612602/live-democracy-advocates-urge-unity-occupy-movement-enters-12th-day |archive-date=20 January 2015 |url-status=live }}
*{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1613434/live-liaison-office-website-targeted-hackers-government-cancels-talks |title=OCCUPY CENTRAL – DAY 13: Full coverage of the day's events |date=10 October 2014 |work=South China Morning Post |ref=daythirteen |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150102004846/http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1613434/live-liaison-office-website-targeted-hackers-government-cancels-talks |archive-date=2 January 2015 |url-status=live }}
*{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1614307/live-occupy-continues-push-democracy-hong-kongs-leaders-head-mainland |title=OCCUPY CENTRAL – DAY 14: Full coverage of the day's events |date=11 October 2014 |work=South China Morning Post |ref=dayfourteen |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150102175906/http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1614307/live-occupy-continues-push-democracy-hong-kongs-leaders-head-mainland |archive-date=2 January 2015 |url-status=live }}
*{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1614970/live-scuffles-mong-kok-hong-kongs-occupy-protests-enter-third-week |title=OCCUPY CENTRAL – DAY 15: Full coverage of the day's events |date=12 October 2014 |work=South China Morning Post |ref=dayfifteen |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150102003025/http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1614970/live-scuffles-mong-kok-hong-kongs-occupy-protests-enter-third-week |archive-date=2 January 2015 |url-status=live }}
*{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1615546/live-police-attempt-clear-queensway-blockade-occupy-enters-16th-day |title=OCCUPY CENTRAL – DAY 16: Full coverage of the day's events |date=13 October 2014 |work=South China Morning Post |ref=daysixteen |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150102194822/http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1615546/live-police-attempt-clear-queensway-blockade-occupy-enters-16th-day |archive-date=2 January 2015 |url-status=live }}
*{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1615997/live-causeway-bay-protesters-vow-rebuild-barricades-after-police |title=OCCUPY CENTRAL – DAY 17: Full coverage of the day's events |date=14 October 2014 |work=South China Morning Post |ref=dayseventeen |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150116124728/http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1615997/live-causeway-bay-protesters-vow-rebuild-barricades-after-police |archive-date=16 January 2015 |url-status=live }}
*{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1616671/live-police-clash-occupy-protesters-attempt-clear-lung-wo-road |title=OCCUPY CENTRAL – DAY 18: Full coverage of the day's events |date=15 October 2014 |work=South China Morning Post |ref=dayeighteen |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150105001159/http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1616671/live-police-clash-occupy-protesters-attempt-clear-lung-wo-road |archive-date=5 January 2015 |url-status=live }}
*{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1617448/live-night-anger-scuffles-and-pepper-spray-hong-kong-after-alleged |title=OCCUPY CENTRAL – DAY 19: Full coverage of the day's events |date=16 October 2014 |work=South China Morning Post |ref=daynineteen |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140119010101/http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1617448/live-night-anger-scuffles-and-pepper-spray-hong-kong-after-alleged |url-status=dead |archive-date=19 January 2014 }}
*{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1649110/live-police-prepare-clear-nathan-road-after-overnight-standoff |title=Stand-off ensues between protesters and police in Mong Kok |date=26 November 2014 |work=South China Morning Post |ref=dayfiftynine |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150102190814/http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1649110/live-police-prepare-clear-nathan-road-after-overnight-standoff |archive-date=2 January 2015 |url-status=live }}
*{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1652860/live-occupy-students-clash-police-near-hong-kongs-government |title=OCCUPY CENTRAL – DAY 64: Full coverage of the day's events |date=1 December 2014 |work=South China Morning Post |ref=daysixtyfour |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140119010101/http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1652860/live-occupy-students-clash-police-near-hong-kongs-government |url-status=dead |archive-date=19 January 2014 }}
*{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1660285/live-occupy-protesters-pack-and-say-their-goodbyes-hong-kong-police |title=Occupy Central Clearance: Full coverage of the day's events |date=11 December 2014 |work=South China Morning Post |ref=dayseventyfour |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140119010101/http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1660285/live-occupy-protesters-pack-and-say-their-goodbyes-hong-kong-police |url-status=dead |archive-date=19 January 2014 }}
*{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1660951/live-hong-kong-protesters-hauled-away-police-authorities-push-reopen|title=Occupy Central Clearance: Full coverage of Thursday night's events|date=11 December 2014|work=South China Morning Post|ref=nightseventyfour}}
{{refend}}

==Further reading==
{{Library resources box}}
* {{cite book|last=Kong|first=Tsung-gan|title=Umbrella: a Political Tale from Hong Kong|date=2017|publisher=Pema Press|isbn=9780997238532|place=United States}}


== External links == ==External links==
{{Commons category|2014 Hong Kong protests}}
* {{cite news|work=South China Morning Post|date=29 September 2014|accessdate=29 September 2014|url=http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/1603762/live-severe-disruption-expected-day-dawns-occupied-hong-kong|title=Hong Kong: Live Coverage of Occupy Central}}
* Amanda Tattersall. Commons Social Change Library. 2019
*
* ''Bloomberg''
*
* {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141020180625/http://www.crowdalbum.com/page/HongKongProtests2014 |date=20 October 2014 }}
* {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141130063443/http://www.aljazeera.com/programmes/peopleandpower/2014/10/hong-kong-occupy-central-201410151493427300.html |date=30 November 2014 }}. Al Jazeera
*
*
* ''South China Morning Post''


{{Umbrella Movement}}
{{Hong Kong electoral reform}} {{Hong Kong electoral reform}}
{{HKafter1997}}
{{Ongoing protests}}
{{Portal bar|China|Hong Kong|Current events|Politics|Society}}
{{Anti-government protests in the 21st century}}


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Latest revision as of 22:38, 21 December 2024

Series of sit-in street protests This article is about street protests in Hong Kong also known as the Umbrella Movement. For the related advocacy group in Hong Kong, see Occupy Central with Love and Peace. For the related political movement in Hong Kong, see Umbrella Movement.

Umbrella Revolution
Part of democratic development in Hong Kong and the Hong Kong–Mainland China conflict
The Admiralty protest site on the night of 10 October
Date26 September 2014 – 15 December 2014 (2 months, 2 weeks and 5 days)
LocationHong Kong:
Caused byStanding Committee of the National People's Congress decision on electoral reform regarding future Hong Kong Chief Executive and Legislative Council elections
Goals
MethodsOccupations, sit-ins, civil disobedience, mobile street protests, internet activism, hunger strikes, hacking
Resulted in
  • No changes to the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress decision on 2014 Hong Kong electoral reform and rejection of the reform by Legislative Council (the large rejection result of 8 to 28 was caused by errors of Pro-Beijing camp)
  • Suffragists launched mobile street protests in various areas after clearance operations
  • Localism and independence movement rises, leading to further protests in 2019
ConcessionsThe Hong Kong government promises to submit a "New Occupy report" to the Chinese Central government
Parties

Umbrella Movement

Protesters
Hacking groups
Authorities
Anti-occupy movement
Hacking groups
Triads
Lead figures
Injuries and arrests
Injuries470+ (as of 29 Nov)
Arrested955
75 turned themselves in
Sites of significant protests
Sites of significant protestsTamarTamarAdmiraltyAdmiraltyCentralCentralWan ChaiWan ChaiMong KokMong KokYau Ma TeiYau Ma TeiCauseway BayCauseway BayTsim Sha TsuiTsim Sha Tsuiclass=notpageimage| Legend:
represents the Occupied Area of the Admiralty
represents the occupied area of Causeway Bay
represents the Occupy Area of Mong Kok
represents the Occupied Area of Tsim Sha Tsui
2014 Hong Kong protests
Umbrella Revolution
Traditional Chinese雨傘革命
Simplified Chinese雨伞革命
Transcriptions
Standard Mandarin
Hanyu PinyinYǔsǎn gémìng
Bopomofoㄩˇ ㄙㄢˇ ㄍㄜˊ ㄇㄧㄥˋ
Wade–GilesYü-san ko-ming
Tongyong PinyinYǔ-sǎn gé-mìng
IPA
Yue: Cantonese
Yale RomanizationYúh saan gaak mihng
Jyutpingjyu5 saan3 gaak3 ming6
Sidney LauYuesaan gaakming
IPA
Umbrella Movement
Traditional Chinese雨傘運動
Simplified Chinese雨伞运动
Transcriptions
Standard Mandarin
Hanyu PinyinYǔsǎn yùndòng
Bopomofoㄩˇ ㄙㄢˇ ㄩㄣˋ ㄉㄨㄥˋ
Wade–GilesYü-san yün-tung
Tongyong PinyinYǔ-sǎn yùn-dòng
IPA
Yue: Cantonese
Yale RomanizationYúh saan wahn duhng
Jyutpingjyu5 saan3 wan6 dung6
Sidney LauYuesaan wandung
IPA
Occupy Movement
Traditional Chinese佔領行動
Simplified Chinese占领行动
Transcriptions
Standard Mandarin
Hanyu PinyinZhànlǐng xíngdòng
Bopomofoㄓㄢˋ ㄌㄧㄥˇ ㄒㄧㄥˊ ㄉㄨㄥˋ
Wade–GilesChan-ling hsing-tung
Tongyong PinyinJhàn-lǐng síng-dòng
IPA
Yue: Cantonese
Yale RomanizationJim líhng hàhng duhng
Jyutpingzim6 ling5 hang4 dung6
Sidney LauZimling hangdung
IPA
Chinese
democracy movements
China Mainland China

 Hong Kong

 Macau

A series of sit-in street protests, often called the Umbrella Revolution and sometimes used interchangeably with Umbrella Movement, or Occupy Movement, occurred in Hong Kong from 26 September to 15 December 2014.

The protests began after the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPCSC) issued a decision regarding proposed reforms to the Hong Kong electoral system. The decision was widely seen to be highly restrictive, and tantamount to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP)'s pre-screening of the candidates for the Chief Executive of Hong Kong.

Students led a strike against the NPCSC's decision beginning on 22 September 2014, and the Hong Kong Federation of Students and Scholarism started protesting outside the government headquarters on 26 September 2014. On 28 September, events developed rapidly. The Occupy Central with Love and Peace movement announced the beginning of their civil disobedience campaign. Students and other members of the public demonstrated outside government headquarters, and some began to occupy several major city intersections. Protesters blocked both east–west arterial routes in northern Hong Kong Island near Admiralty. Police tactics – including the use of tear gas – and triad attacks on protesters led more citizens to join the protests and to occupy Causeway Bay and Mong Kok. The number of protesters peaked at more than 100,000 at any given time, overwhelming the police thus causing containment errors.

Government officials in Hong Kong and in Beijing denounced the occupation as "illegal" and a "violation of the rule of law", and Chinese state media and officials claimed repeatedly that the West had played an "instigating" role in the protests, and warned of "deaths and injuries and other grave consequences." The protests precipitated a rift in Hong Kong society, and galvanised youth – a previously apolitical section of society – into political activism or heightened awareness of their civil rights and responsibilities. Not only were there fist fights at occupation sites and flame wars on social media, family members found themselves on different sides of the conflict.

Key areas in Admiralty, Causeway Bay and Mong Kok were occupied and remained closed to traffic for 77 days. Despite numerous incidents of intimidation and violence by triads and thugs, particularly in Mong Kok, and several attempts at clearance by the police, suffragists held their ground for over two months. After the Mong Kok occupation site was cleared with some scuffles on 25 November, Admiralty and Causeway Bay were cleared with no opposition on 11 and 14 December, respectively.

The Hong Kong government's use of the police and courts to resolve political issues led to accusations that these institutions had been turned into political tools, thereby compromising the police and judicial system in the territory and eroding the rule of law in favour of "rule by law". At times violent police action during the occupation was widely perceived to have damaged the reputation of what was once recognised as one of the most efficient, honest and impartial police forces in the Asia Pacific region. The protests ended without any political concessions from the government, but instead triggered rhetoric from Chief Executive of Hong Kong Leung Chun-ying and mainland officials about rule of law and patriotism, and an assault on academic freedoms and civil liberties of activists.

Background

Main articles: Democratic development in Hong Kong and 2014 Hong Kong electoral reform

Political background

As a result of negotiations and the 1984 agreement between China and Britain, Hong Kong was returned to China and became its first Special Administrative Region on 1 July 1997, under the principle of "one country, two systems". Hong Kong has a different political system from mainland China. Hong Kong's independent judiciary functions under the common law framework. The Hong Kong Basic Law, the constitutional document drafted by the Chinese side before the handover based on the terms enshrined in the Joint Declaration, governs its political system, and stipulates that Hong Kong shall have a high degree of autonomy in all matters except foreign relations and military defence. The declaration stipulates that the region maintain its capitalist economic system and guarantees the rights and freedoms of its people for at least 50 years after the 1997 handover. The guarantees over the territory's autonomy and the individual rights and freedoms are enshrined in the Hong Kong Basic Law, which outlines the system of governance of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, but which is subject to the interpretation of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPCSC).

The leader of Hong Kong, the Chief Executive, is currently elected by a 1200-member Election Committee, though Article 45 of the Basic Law states that "the ultimate aim is the selection of the Chief Executive by universal suffrage upon nomination by a broadly representative nominating committee in accordance with democratic procedures." A 2007 decision by the Standing Committee opened the possibility of selecting the Chief Executive via universal suffrage in the 2017 Chief Executive election, and the first round of consultations to implement the needed electoral reforms ran for five months in early 2014. Chief Executive Leung Chun-ying then, per procedure, submitted a report to the Standing Committee inviting them to deliberate whether it is necessary to amend the method of selection of the Chief Executive.

As early as January 2013, legal scholar Benny Tai published an article by launching a non-violent civil disobedience of occupying Central if the government's proposal failed to satisfy the "international standards in relation to universal suffrage". A group called the Occupy Central with Love and Peace (OCLP) was formed in March 2013 and held rounds of deliberations on the electoral reform proposals and strategies. In June 2014, the OCLP conducted a "civic referendum" on its own electoral reform proposal in which 792,808 residents, equivalent to over one fifth of the registered electorate, participated.

In June 2014, the State Council issued a white paper called The Practice of the 'One Country, Two Systems' Policy in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region claiming "comprehensive jurisdiction" over the territory. "The high degree of autonomy of the HKSAR is not full autonomy, nor a decentralised power," it said. "It is the power to run local affairs as authorised by the central leadership."

Standing Committee decision on electoral reform

Main article: 2014 NPCSC Decision on Hong Kong

On 31 August 2014, the tenth session of the Standing Committee in the twelfth National People's Congress set limits for the 2016 Legislative Council election and 2017 Chief Executive election. While notionally allowing for universal suffrage, the decision imposes the standard that "the Chief Executive shall be a person who loves the country and loves Hong Kong," and stipulates "the method for selecting the Chief Executive by universal suffrage must provide corresponding institutional safeguards for this purpose". The decision states that for the 2017 Chief Executive election, a nominating committee, mirroring the present 1200-member Election Committee be formed to nominate two to three candidates, each of whom must receive the support of more than half of the members of the nominating committee. After popular election of one of the nominated candidates, the Chief Executive-elect "will have to be appointed by the Central People's Government." The process of forming the 2016 Legislative Council would be unchanged, but following the new process for the election of the Chief Executive, a new system to elect the Legislative Council via universal suffrage would be developed with the approval of Beijing.

The Standing Committee decision is set to be the basis for electoral reform crafted by the Legislative Council. Hundreds of suffragists gathered on the night of the Beijing announcement near the government offices to protest the decision.

In an opinion poll carried out by the Chinese University of Hong Kong between 8 and 15 October 2014, only 36.1% of 802 people surveyed accepted the NPCSC's decision. The acceptance rate rose to 55.6% on the proviso that the HKSAR Government would propose democratising the nominating committee after the planned second phase of public consultation.

Events

July 2014

In an atmosphere of growing discontent, the annual 1 July protest march attracted the biggest numbers in a decade and ended in an overnight sit-in in Central with 5,000 police conducting over 500 arrests.

September 2014

Initial protests

At a gathering in Hong Kong on 1 September to explain the NPCSC decision of 31 August, deputy secretary general Li Fei said that the procedure would protect the broad stability of Hong Kong now and in the future. Pro-democracy advocates said the decision was a betrayal of the principle of "one person, one vote," in that candidates deemed unsuitable by the Beijing authorities would be pre-emptively screened out by the mechanism, a point from which Li did not resile while maintaining that the process was "democratic". About 100 suffragists attended the gathering, and some were ejected for heckling. Police broke up a group of demonstrators protesting outside the hotel where Li was staying, arresting 19 people for illegal assembly.

In response to the NPCSC decision, the Democratic Party legislators promised to veto the framework for both elections as being inherently undemocratic; Occupy Central with Love and Peace (OCLP) announced that it would organise civil disobedience protests and its three convenors led the Black Banner protest march on 14 September 2014 from Causeway Bay to Central.

On 13 September 2014, representatives of Scholarism, including 17-year-old Agnes Chow Ting, staged a small protest against the NPCSC decision outside the Central Government Offices and announced a class boycott for university students for the week commencing 22 September. Alex Chow encouraged students unable to join in to wear a yellow ribbon to signify their support. The Hong Kong Federation of Students (HKFS) (representing tertiary students) and Scholarism mobilised students for the class boycott, beginning with a rally attracting 13,000 students on the Chinese University of Hong Kong campus on the afternoon of 22 September.

Police officers surround the students protesting at Civic Square (27 September)

Scholarism organised a protest gathering by school students at the large Tamar Park, an integral part of the Government Headquarters complex, applying for permission from the responsible government department to occupy the part from 23 to 26 September. Permission was granted only for the first three days, the fourth day being reserved for a virtually unattended pro-Beijing rally. Then having received a "notice of no objection" from the police to assemble for the 24 hours of 26 September 2014 on the relatively little-used Tim Mei Avenue, the students moved there in their hundreds, blocking traffic near the eastern entrance of the Central Government Offices. At around 22:30, responding to calls from, first, Joshua Wong, the Convenor of Scholarism, and then Nathan Law, and led by Wong, up to 100 protesters went to "reclaim" Civic Square, a customarily open but recently closed public access area, by clambering over the perimeter fence. Wong was almost immediately arrested, as police deployed pepper spray on those entering the square. The police surrounded protesters at the centre and prepared to remove them overnight. Protesters who chose to depart were allowed to do so; the rest were picked off and carried away one by one by groups of four or more police officers.

By the midnight of 26/27 September, 13 people had been arrested including Joshua Wong. Wong was held for 46 hours, released by police at 20:30 on 28 September only upon his writ of habeas corpus being granted by the High Court.

At 1:20 am (of 27 September), the police used pepper spray on a crowd that had gathered outside the Legislative Council, another part of the same complex, and some students were injured.

At 1:30 pm on 27 September, the police carried out the second round of clearances, and 48 men and 13 women were arrested for forcible entry into government premises and unlawful assembly and one man was alleged to be carrying an offensive weapon. A police spokesman declared the assembly outside the Central Government Complex at Tim Mei Avenue illegal, and advised citizens to avoid the area. The arrested demonstrators, including Legislative Councillor Leung Kwok-hung and some HKFS members, were released around 9 pm. HKFS representatives Alex Chow and Lester Shum were, however, detained for 30 hours. The police eventually cleared the assembly, arresting a total of 78 people.

Occupy Central

Occupy Central with Love and Peace had been expected to start their occupation on 1 October, but this was accelerated to capitalise on the mass student presence. At 1:40 am on Sunday, 28 September, Benny Tai, one of the founders of OCLP, announced its commencement at a rally near the Central Government Complex.

10.45 am 28 September 2014 – Yellow ribbons adorn Civic Square fence after protestors ejected by Hong Kong Police

Later that morning, protests escalated as police blocked roads and bridges entering Tim Mei Avenue. Protest leaders urged citizens to come to Admiralty to encircle the police. Tensions rose at the junction of Tim Mei Avenue and Harcourt Road after the police used pepper spray.

At around 4 pm on 28 September 2014, the footpaths of Harcourt Road could no longer contain the large numbers of demonstrators who were streaming to the location in support of those facing police pressure on Tim Mei Avenue. They spilled onto the busy artery in an irresistible surge. Traffic came to an abrupt halt. Occupy Central had begun.

Mask and ribbon-equipped democracy protester, Civic Party committee member and former legislator Audrey Eu interviewed on Lung Wui Rd near Tim Mei Ave, 10.53 am 28 September 2014
The "Umbrella Man" photo as police dispersed peaceful demonstrators with tear gas.

As night fell, armed riot police advanced from Wan Chai towards Admiralty and unfurled a banner that stated "WARNING, TEAR SMOKE". Seconds later, between 17:58 and 18:01, shots of tear gas were fired. Then, the police gave them the above-mentioned message and a different message of "DISPERSE OR WE FIRE" concurrently. At around 19:00, the police was telling them to "move back (向後褪)" and pointed Remington Model 870 at them. Around 6 hours later, Leung Chun-ying denied gunshot by the police.

28 September 2014, evening – Tear gas fired on protestors outside government headquarters

The heavy-handed policing, including the use of tear gas on peaceful protesters, inspired tens of thousands of citizens to join the protests in Admiralty that night. Containment errors by the police – the closure of Tamar Park and Admiralty station – caused a spill-over to other parts of the city, including Wan Chai, Causeway Bay and Mong Kok. 3,000 protesters occupied a road in Mong Kok and 1,000 went to Causeway Bay. The total number of protesters on the streets swelled to 80,000, at times considerably exceeding 100,000.

The police confirmed that they fired tear gas 87 times. At least 34 people were injured in that day's protests. According to police spokesmen, officers exercised "maximum tolerance", and tear gas was used only after protesters refused to disperse and "violently charged". The South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported, however, that police officers were seen charging the suffragists. The media recalled that last time Hong Kong police used tear gas had been on Korean protesters during the 2005 World Trade Organization conference.

On 29 September, the police adopted a less aggressive approach, sometimes employing negotiators to urge protesters to leave. 89 protesters were arrested; there were 41 casualties, including 12 police officers. Chief Secretary for Administration, Carrie Lam announced that the second round of public consultations on political reform, originally planned to be completed by the end of the year, would be postponed.

October 2014

Joshua Wong and several Scholarism members attended the National Day flag raising ceremony on 1 October at the Golden Bauhinia Square, having undertaken not to shout slogans or make any gestures during the flag raising. Instead, the students faced away from the flag to show their discontent. Then District Councillor Paul Zimmerman opened a yellow umbrella in protest inside the reception after the ceremony. Protesters set up a short-lived fourth occupation site at a section of Canton Road in Tsim Sha Tsui.

Alex Chow addresses Occupy Central Crowd, 2 October 2014 17:54

By 2 October, activists had almost encircled the Central Government Headquarters. Shortly before midnight, the Hong Kong Government responded to an ultimatum demanding universal suffrage with unscreened nominees: Carrie Lam agreed to hold talks with student leaders about political reform at a time to be fixed.

On 3 October, violence erupted in Mong Kok and Causeway Bay when groups of anti-Occupy Central activists including triad members and locals attacked suffragists while tearing down their tents and barricades. A student suffered head injuries. Journalists were also attacked. The Foreign Correspondents' Club accused the police of appearing to arrest alleged attackers but releasing them shortly after. One legislator accused the government of orchestrating triads to clear the protest sites. It was also reported that triads, as proprietors of many businesses in Mong Kok, had their own motivations to attack the protesters. There were 20 arrests, and 18 people injured, including 6 police officers. Eight of the people arrested had triad backgrounds, but were released on bail. Student leaders blamed the government for the attacks, and halted plans to hold talks with the government.

On 4 October, counter-protesters wearing blue ribbons marched in support of the police. Patrick Ko of the Voice of Loving Hong Kong group accused the suffragists of having double standards, and said that if the police had enforced the law, protesters would have already been evicted. The anti-Occupy group Caring Hong Kong Power staged their own rally, at which they announced their support for the use of fire-arms by police and the deployment of the People's Liberation Army.

In the afternoon, Chief Executive CY Leung insisted that government operations and schools affected by the occupation must resume on Monday. Former Democratic Party lawmaker Cheung Man-Kwong claimed the occupy campaign was in a "very dangerous situation," and urged them to "sit down and talk, in order to avoid tragedy". The Federation of Students demanded the government explain the previous night's events and said they would continue their occupation of streets. Secretary for Security Lai Tung-kwok denied accusations against the police, and explained that tear gas had been used in Admiralty but not in Mong Kok because of the difference in geography. Police also claimed that protesters' barricades had prevented reinforcements from arriving on the scene.

Democrat legislator James To said that "the government has used organised, orchestrated forces and even triad gangs in attempt to disperse citizens." Violent attacks on journalists were strongly condemned by The Foreign Correspondents' Club, the Hong Kong Journalists' Association and local broadcaster RTHK. Three former US consuls general to Hong Kong wrote a letter to the Chief Executive asking him to solve the disputes peacefully.

On 5 October, leading establishment figures sympathetic to the liberal cause, including university heads and politicians, urged the suffragists to leave the streets for their own safety. The rumoured clearance operation by the police did not occur. At lunchtime the government offered to hold talks if the protesters cleared the roads. Later that night, the government agreed to guarantee the protesters' safety, and HKFS leader Alex Chow announced that he had agreed to begin preparations for talks with Carrie Lam.

On 9 October, the government cancelled the meeting with student leaders that had been scheduled for 10 October. Carrie Lam explained at a news conference that "We cannot accept the linking of illegal activities to whether or not to talk." Alex Chow said "I feel like the government is saying that if there are fewer people on the streets, they can cancel the meeting. Students urge people who took part in the civil disobedience to go out on the streets again to occupy." Pan-democrat legislators threatened to veto non-essential funding applications, potentially disrupting government operations, in support of the suffragists.

On 10 October, in defiance of police warnings, thousands of protesters, many with tents, returned to the streets. Over a hundred tents were pitched across the eight-lane Harcourt Road thoroughfare in Admiralty, alongside dozens of food and first-aid marquees. The ranks of protesters continued to swell on the 11th.

On 11 October, the student leaders issued an open letter to Chinese Communist Party general secretary Xi Jinping saying that CY Leung's report to NPCSC on democratic development disregarded public opinion and ignored "Hong Kong people's genuine wishes."

Clearance actions

At 5.30 am on 12 October, police started an operation to remove unmanned barricades in Harcourt Road (Admiralty site) to "reduce the chance of traffic accidents". In a pre-recorded TV interview CY Leung declared that his resignation "would not solve anything". He said the decision to use tear gas was made by the police without any political interference. Several press organisations including the Hong Kong Journalists Association objected to the exclusion of other journalists, and said that Leung was deliberately avoiding questions about the issues surrounding the electoral framework.

Barricades on Hennessy Road, 13 October 2014

On 13 October, hundreds of men, many wearing surgical masks and carrying crowbars and cutting tools, began removing barricades at various sites and attacking suffragists. Police made attempts to separate the groups. Suffragists repaired and reinforced some barricades using bamboo and concrete. Protesters again claimed that the attacks were organised and involved triad groups. Police made three arrests for assault and possession of weapons. Although police cautioned against reinforcing the existing obstacles or setting up new obstacles to enlarge the occupied area, suffragists later reinstated the barriers overnight.

Police dismantle roadblocks on Queensway

Anti-occupy protesters began to besiege the headquarters of Next Media, publisher of Apple Daily. They accused the paper of biased reporting. Masked men among the protesters prevented the loading of copies of Apple Daily as well as The New York Times onto delivery vans. Apple Daily sought a court injunction and a High Court judge issued a temporary order to prevent any blocking of the entrance. Five press unions made a statement condemning the harassment of journalists by anti-occupy protesters.

In the early morning of 14 October, police conducted a dawn raid to dismantle barricades in Yee Wo Street (Causeway Bay site), opening one lane to westbound traffic. They also dismantled barricades at Queensway, Admiralty, and reopened it to traffic.

Before midnight on 15 October, protesters stopped traffic on Lung Wo Road, the arterial road north of the Central Government Complex at Admiralty, and began erecting barricades. The police were unable to hold their cordon at Lung Wo Road Tunnel and had to retreat for reinforcements and to regroup. Around 3 am, police began to clear the road using batons and pepper spray. By dawn, traffic on the road resumed and the protesters retreated into Tamar Park, while 45 arrests were made.

Police assault Ken Tsang

Local television channel TVB broadcast footage of Civic Party member Ken Tsang being assaulted by police. He was carried off with his hands tied behind his back; then, while one officer kept watch, a group of about six officers punched, kicked and stamped on him for about four minutes. Journalists complained that they too had been assaulted. The video provoked outrage; Amnesty International joined others in calling for the officers to be prosecuted. In response, Secretary for Security Lai Tung-kwok said that "the officers involved will be temporarily removed from their current duties." They were convicted and jailed in 2017 and Tsang commenced a claim for damages against the Commissioner of Police.

Police forcing the protesters back southwards on Nathan Road in the evening

At 5 am on 17 October, police cleared the barricades and tents at the Mong Kok site and opened the northbound side of Nathan Road to traffic for the first time in three weeks. In the early evening, at least 9000 protesters tried to retake the northbound lanes of the road. The police claimed that 15 officers sustained injuries. There were at least 26 arrests, including photojournalist Paula Bronstein. Around midnight, the police retreated and the suffragists re-erected barricades across the road.

A meeting of protesters. 20 October 2014.
A meeting of protesters. 20 October 2014.

On Sunday, 19 October, police used pepper spray and riot gear to contain the protesters in Mong Kok. Martin Lee, who was at the scene, said that "triad elements" had initiated scuffles with police "for reasons best known to themselves". The police had arrested 37 protesters that weekend; the government said that nearly 70 people had been injured. At night, two pro-democracy lawmakers, Fernando Cheung and Claudia Mo, appeared at Mong Kok to mediate between the suffragists and the police, leading to a lowering of tensions as the police and suffragists each stepped back and widened the buffer zone. No clashes were reported for the night.

On 20 October, a taxi drivers' union and the owner of CITIC Tower were granted a court injunction against the occupiers of sections of several roads. In his first interview to international journalists since the start of the protests, CY Leung said that Hong Kong had been "lucky" that Beijing had not yet intervened in the protests, and repeated Chinese claims that "foreign forces" were involved. He defended Beijing's stance on screening candidates. He said that open elections would result in pressure on candidates to create a welfare state, arguing that "If it's entirely a numbers game – numeric representation – then obviously you'd be talking to half the people in Hong Kong earn less than US$1,800 a month . You would end up with that kind of politics and policies." A SCMP comment by columnist Alex Lo said of this interview: "Leung has set the gold standard on how not to do a media interview for generations of politicians to come."

Televised debate

On 21 October, the government and the HKFS held the first round of talks in a televised open debate. HKFS secretary-general Alex Chow, vice secretary Lester Shum, general secretary Eason Chung, and standing members Nathan Law and Yvonne Leung met with Hong Kong Government representatives Chief secretary Carrie Lam, secretary of justice Rimsky Yuen, undersecretary Raymond Tam, office director Edward Yau and undersecretary Lau Kong-wah. The discussion was moderated by Leonard Cheng, the president of Lingnan University. During the talks, government representatives suggested the possibility of writing a new report on the students' concerns to supplement the government's last report on political reform to Beijing, but stressed that civil nomination, as proposed by the students, fell outside the framework of the Basic Law and the NPCSC decision, which could be withdrawn. The government described the talks as "candid and meaningful" in a press release, while the students expressed their disappointment at the lack of concrete results.

On 22 October about 200 demonstrators marched to Government House, the official residence of the Chief Executive, in protest at his statement to journalists on 20 October about the need to deny political rights to the poor in Hong Kong. At Mong Kok, members of the Taxi Drivers and Operators Association and a coalition of truck drivers attempted to enforce the court injunction granted two days earlier to remove barricades and clear the street. They were accompanied by their lawyer, who read out the court order to the demonstrators. Fist fights broke out during the afternoon and evening.

A yellow vertical protest banner which read "We demand real universal suffrage" was hung on Lion Rock.

also see vertical protest banners

On 23 October, a massive yellow vertical protest banner which read (in Chinese) "I want real universal suffrage" was hung on Lion Rock, the iconic hill that overlooks the Kowloon Peninsula and is seen to represent the spirit of Hong Kong. The vertical protest banner was removed the following day.

On 25 October, a group of anti-Occupy supporters wearing blue ribbons gathered at Tsim Sha Tsui to show their support of the police. Four journalists from RTHK and TVB tried to interview them and were attacked. The police escorted the journalists away. A female reporter for RTHK, a male reporter and two photographers for TVB were taken to hospital. A group of about 10 men wearing facemasks attacked suffragists in Mong Kok. Six people were arrested for common assault. Alex Chow said that citizens deserved a chance to express their views over the constitutional reform proposal and the NPCSC's decision of 31 August. He said that the protest would only end if the government offered a detailed timeline or roadmap to allow universal suffrage and withdrawal of the standing committee decision.

On 28 October, the HKFS issued an open letter to Chief Secretary Carrie Lam asking for a second round of talks. HKFS set out a prerequisite for the negotiation, that the government's report to the Chinese government must include a call for the retraction of the NPCSC's decision. The HKFS demanded direct talks with Chinese Premier Li Keqiang should the Hong Kong Government feel it could not fulfil this and other terms. The 30th day since the police fired tear gas was marked at 5.57 pm exactly, with 87 seconds of silence, one for each tear gas canister that was fired.

On 29 October, after James Tien of the pro-Beijing Liberal Party urged Leung to consider resigning in a public interview on 24 October, the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference Standing Committee convened to discuss Tien's removal from the body as a move to whip the pro-establishment camp into supporting Leung and the country. Tien, a long-time critic of Leung, said that Leung's position was no longer tenable as Hong Kong people no longer trusted his administration, and that his hanging onto office would only exacerbate the divisions in society. Tien stepped down from his position as the leader of the Liberal Party after the removal. Lester Shum refused bail extension based on conditions imposed after his arrest on 26 September, and was released unconditionally by police. That day was also the day of the Umbrella Ultra Marathon event.

November 2014

A police cordon during the clearance of Mong Kok site, with yellow towers from which liquified tear gas was sprayed on protesters.

The anti-Occupy group Alliance for Peace and Democracy had run a petition throughout the end of October to the start of November, and at the end of their campaign claimed to have collected over 1.8 million signatures demanding the return of streets occupied by the protesters and restoration of law and order. Each signator are required to show a valid Hong Kong ID card and the final result is checked and verified to make sure there is no multiple voting by the same individual. The group's previous signature collection has been criticised as "lack of credibility" by its opponents.

The High Court extended injunctions on 10 November that had been granted to taxi, mini-bus and bus operators authorising the clearance of protest sites. On the following day, Carrie Lam told reporters that there would be no further dialogue with protesters. She warned that "the police will give full assistance, including making arrests where necessary" in the clearance of the sites, and advised the protesters to leave "voluntarily and peacefully". However, the granting of the court order and the conditions attached to its execution attracted controversy as some lawyers and a top judge questioned why the order was granted based on an ex parte hearing, the urgency of the matter, and the use of the police when the order was for a civil complaint.

On 10 November, around 1,000 pro-democracy demonstrators, many wearing yellow ribbons and carrying yellow umbrellas, marched to the PRC Liaison Office in Sai Wan to protest the arrests of people expressing support for the protest. The marchers included Alex Chow, who announced that the Federation of Students were writing to the 35 local delegates to the National People's Congress to enlist their help in setting up talks with Beijing. On 30 October Chow and other student leaders had announced that they were considering plans to take their protest to the APEC summit to be held in Beijing on 10 and 11 November. As observers had predicted, the student delegation led by Chow was prevented from travelling to China when they attempted to leave on 15 November. Airline officials informed them that mainland authorities had revoked their Home Return Permits, effectively banning them from boarding the flight to speak to government officials in Beijing.

On 12 November, media tycoon Jimmy Lai was the target of an offal attack at the Admiralty site by three men, who were detained by volunteer marshalls for the protest site. Both the attackers and the two site marshalls who restrained them were arrested by the police, which led to condemnation by the pan-democracy camp, who organised an unauthorised protest march the next day. The two marshalls from the protest site were later released on bail.

On the morning of 18 November, in compliance with a court injunction, suffragists pre-emptively moved their tents and other affairs that were blocking access to Citic Tower, avoiding confrontation with bailiffs and the police over the removal of barricades.

In the early hours of 19 November, protesters broke into a side-entrance to the Legislative Council Complex, breaking glass panels with concrete tiles and metal barricades. Legislator Fernando Cheung and other suffragists tried to stop the radical activists, but were pushed aside. The break-in, which according to The Standard was instigated by Civic Passion, was "strongly" condemned by Occupy Central for Love and Peace, and legislators from both the pan-democracy and pro-Beijing camps.

On 21 November, up to 100 people gathered outside the British consulate accusing the former colonial power of failing to pressure China to grant free elections in the city and protect freedoms guaranteed in the Sino-British Joint Declaration.

Protesters and police face off in Mong Kok on 28 November.

Amidst declining support for the occupation, bailiffs and police cleared the tents and barriers in the most volatile of the three Occupy sites, Mong Kok, on 25 and early 26 November. Suffragists poured into Mong Kok after the first day's clearance, and there was a stand-off between protesters and police the next day. Scuffles were reported, and pepper spray was used. Police detained 116 people during the clearance, including student leaders Joshua Wong and Lester Shum. Joshua Wong, Lester Shum and some 30 of those arrested were bailed but subject to an exclusion zone centred around Mong Kok station. Mong Kok remained the centre of focus for several days after the clearance of the occupied area, with members of the public angry about heavy-handed policing. Fearing re-occupation, in excess of 4,000 police were deployed to the area. Large crowds, ostensibly heeding a call from C. Y. Leung to return to the shops affected by the occupation, appeared nightly in and around Sai Yeung Choi Street South (close to the former occupied site); hundreds of armed riot police charged demonstrators with shields, pepper spraying and wrestling them to the ground. Protesters intent on "Gau Wu" (shopping) remained until dawn.

Overnight on 30 November, there were violent clashes between police and protesters in Admiralty after the Federation of Students and Scholarism called upon the crowd to surround the Central Government Offices. The police used a hose to splash protesters for the first time. The entrance to the Admiralty Centre was also blocked. Most of the violence occurred near Admiralty MTR station. Also, Joshua Wong and two other Scholarism members began an indefinite hunger strike.

December 2014

The minibus company cleaning Roadblocks at Connaught Road Central
Protesters stay in Harcourt Road and not willing to leave

On 3 December, the OCLP trio, along with 62 others, including lawmaker Wu Chi-wai and Cardinal Joseph Zen, turned themselves in to the police to bear the legal consequences of civil disobedience. However, they were set free without being arrested or charged. They also urged occupiers to leave and transform the movement into a community campaign, citing concerns for their safety amidst the police's escalation of force in recent crackdowns. Nonetheless, HKFS and Scholarism both continued the occupation. Nightly "Gau Wu" tours continued in Mong Kok for over a week after the clearance of the occupation site, tying up some 2500 police officers. The minibus company that took out the Mong Kok injunction was in turn accused of having illegally occupied Tung Choi Street for years.

On the morning of 11 December, many protesters left the Admiralty site before crews of the bus company that had applied for the Admiralty injunction dismantled roadblocks without resistance. Afterwards, the police set a deadline for protesters to leave the occupied areas and cordoned off the zone for the remainder of the day. 209 protesters declined to leave and were arrested, including several pan-democratic legislators and members of HKFS and Scholarism. Meanwhile, the police set the bridge access to Citic Tower and Central Government Office only allowing media to access. The Independent Police Complaints Council was present to monitor the area for any "excessive use of force" along with fifty professors.

On 15 December, police cleared protesters and their camps at Causeway Bay with essentially no resistance, bringing the protests to an end.

Impact

Effects on business and transport

Traffic being diverted off Connaught Road in Central on 30 September

Surface traffic between Central and Admiralty, Causeway Bay, as well as in Mong Kok, was seriously affected by the blockades, with traffic jams stretching for miles on Hong Kong Island and across Victoria Harbour. Major tailbacks were reported on Queensway, Gloucester Road and Connaught Road, which are feeder roads to the blockaded route in Admiralty. With in excess of 100 bus or tram routes suspended or re-routed, queues for underground trains in the Admiralty district spilled onto the street at times. The MTR, the city's underground transport operator, was a beneficiary, enjoying a 20 per cent increase in passenger trips recorded on two of its lines. Others have opted to walk instead of driving. Taxi drivers reported a fall in income as they had to advise passengers to use the MTR when faced with jams, diversions or blockaded roads. Hong Kong Taxi Owners' Association claimed its members' incomes had declined by 30 per cent since the protests started. Levels of PM2.5 particulate matter at the three sites declined to within the recommended safety levels of the World Health Organization. An editorial in the South China Morning Post noted that, on 29 September, the air quality in all three of the occupied areas had markedly improved. The health risk posed by airborne pollutants was "low" – it was usually "high" – and there was a steep fall in the concentration of NO2. It said: "without a policy shift, after the demonstrations have ended, we will have to rely on our memories of the protest days for what clean vehicles on our roads mean for air quality".

Nursery, primary and secondary schools within the Central and Western catchment areas were suspended from 29 September onwards. Classes for 25,000 primary students and 30,000 secondary students resumed on 7 October. Kindergartens and nursery schools resumed operations on 9 October, adding to the traffic burden. The Hong Kong Retail Management Association reported that chain stores takings declined between 30 and 45 per cent during the period 1–5 October in Admiralty, Central and Causeway Bay. The media reported that some shops and banks in the protest areas were shuttered.

According to the World Bank, the protests were damaging Hong Kong's economy while China remained largely unaffected. Although the Hang Seng Index fell by 2.59% during the "Golden Week", it recovered and trading volume rose considerably. Shanghai Daily published on 4 October estimated that the protests had cost Hong Kong HK$40 billion ($5.2 billion), with tourism and retail reportedly being hardest hit. However, tourist numbers for the "Golden Week" (beginning 1 October) were 4.83% higher than the previous year, according to the Hong Kong Tourism Board. While substantial losses by retailer were predicted, some stores reported a marked increase in sales. Triad gangs, which had reportedly suffered a 40% decline in revenues, were implicated in the attacks in Mong Kok, where some of the worst violence had occurred. Economic effects seemed either to be extremely localised or transient, and in any event much less than the dire predictions of business lobbies. One of the hardest hit may have been the Hong Kong Tramways Company, which reported a decline in revenues of US$1 million. An economist said that the future stability will depend on political governance, namely if political issues such as income gaps and political reforms will be addressed.

Effects on Hong Kong society

The protests have caused strong differences of opinion in Hong Kong society, with a "yellow (pro-occupy) vs. blue (anti-occupy)" war being fought, and unfriending on social media, such as Facebook. Hong Kong people who oppose the Occupy protests do so for a number of different reasons. A significant part of the population, refugees from Communist China in the 1950s and 1960s, lived through the turmoil of the Hong Kong 1967 Leftist riots. Others feel that the protesters are too idealistic, and fear upsetting the PRC leadership and the possibility of another repeat of the crackdown that ended the Tiananmen Square protests of 1989. However, the overwhelming reason is the disruption to the lives of ordinary citizens caused by roads blocked, traffic jams, school closures, and financial loss to businesses (including in particular those run by the Triads in Mong Kok). According to some reports, the police actions on the protesters has resulted in a breakdown of citizens' trust in the previously respected police force. The police deny accusations that they failed to act diligently. The media have reported on individuals who have quit their jobs, or students abroad who have rushed home to become a part of history, and one protester saw this as "the best and last opportunity for Hong Kong people's voices to be heard, as Beijing's influence grows increasingly stronger". Police officers have been working 18-hour shifts to the detriment of their family lives. Front line police officers, in addition to working long hours, being attacked and abused on the streets, are under unprecedented stress at home. Psychologists working with police officers in the field report that some felt humiliated as they may have been unfriended on Facebook, and family may blame them for their perceived roles in suppressing the protests. Although the media has often dubbed it "Asia's Finest", the reputation of the police has taken a serious drubbing following the heavy-handed treatment of protesters, as well as police brutality captured on camera and made viral. Andy Tsang, the police commissioner appointed in 2011, is held responsible for the procedural escalation of police violence in the face of protesters, through deployment of riot police and 87 instances in which tear gas was released; dispersal of unarmed students also caused disquiet among senior police staffers.

In an opinion poll of Hong Kong citizens carried out since 4 October by Hong Kong Polytechnic University, 59% of the 850 people surveyed supported the protesters in their refusal to accept the government plan for the 2017 election. 29% of those questioned, the largest proportion, blamed the violence that had occurred during the demonstrations on the chief Executive CY Leung.

Triad involvement and counterprotester recruitment allegations

Anti-Occupy protesters in Causeway Bay, 12 October

The BBC showed video footage from a Hong Kong TV network which appeared to show 'anti-Occupy protesters' being hired and transported to an Occupy protest site. The 'protesters', many of whom were initially unaware of what they were being paid to do, were secretly filmed on the bus being handed money by the organiser. Anonymous police sources informed the BBC Newsnight investigation that "back-up was strangely unforthcoming" to scenes of violence. The South China Morning Post also reported claims that people from poor districts were being offered up to HK$800 per day, via WhatsApp messaging, to participate in anti-Occupy riots.

The Hong Kong police has stated that up to 200 gangsters from two major triads may have infiltrated the camps of Occupy Central supporters, although their exact motives are as yet unknown. A police officer explained the police could not arrest the triad gangsters there "if they do nothing more than singing songs for democracy". A 2013 editorial in the Taipei Times of Taiwan described the pro-Beijing "grass-roots" organisations in Hong Kong: "Since Leung has been in office, three organizations – Voice of Loving Hong Kong, Caring Hong Kong Power and the Hong Kong Youth Care Association – have appeared on the scene and have been playing the role of Leung's hired "thugs", using Cultural Revolution-style language and methods to oppose Hong Kong's pan-democratic parties and groups." Both Apple Daily and the Taiwan Central News Agency, as well as some pan-democrat legislators in Hong Kong, have named the Ministry of State Security and Ministry of Public Security as being responsible for the attacks.

Legislative Council member James To alleged that "The police is happy to let the triad elements to threaten the students, at least for several hours, to see whether they would disperse or not." He added, "Someone, with political motive, is utilising the triad to clear the crowd, so as to help the government to advance their cause." Amnesty International condemned the police for " in their duty to protect protesters from attacks" and stating that women were attacked, threatened, and sexually assaulted while police watched and did nothing. Commander Paul Edmiston of the police admitted officers had been working long hours and had received heavy criticism. Responding to accusations that police chose not to protect the protesters, he said: "No matter what we do, we're criticized for doing too little or too much. We can't win." An analysis in Harbour Times suggested that businesses that pay protection money to Triads in the neighbourhood stood to be affected by an occupation. The journal criticised police response as being at first disorganised and slow onto the scene, but observed that its handling was within operating norms in triad-heavy neighbourhoods although it was affected by low levels of mutual trust, suspicion.

Local media coverage

See also: Media of Hong Kong

Many of Hong Kong's media outlets are owned by local tycoons who have significant business ties in the mainland, so they all adopt self-censorship at some level and have mostly maintained a conservative editorial line in their coverage of the protests. Next Media, being Hong Kong's only openly pro-democracy media conglomerate, has been the target of blockades by anti-Occupy protesters, cyberattacks, and hijacks of their delivery trucks. The uneven spread of viewpoints on traditional media has turned young people to social media for news, which The Guardian has described as making the protests "the best-documented social movement in history, with even its quieter moments generating a maelstrom of status updates, shares and likes." People at protest sites now rely on alternative media whose launches were propelled by the protests, also called "umbrella revolution", or actively covered news from a perspective not found in traditional journals. Even the recently defunct House News resurrected itself, reformatted as The House News Bloggers. Radical viewpoints are catered for at Hong Kong Peanut, and Passion Times – run by Civic Passion.

See also: Beating of Ken Tsang
Still frame of seven plainclothes police officers assaulting a handcuffed protester. Disputed heading (拳打腳踢) was subtitled.
External videos
video icon seven plainclothes police officers beating up a handcuffed protester

The prominent local station, TVB, originally broadcast footage of police officers beating a protester on 15 October, but the station experienced internal conflict during the broadcast. The pre-dawn broadcasts soundtrack mentioning "punching and kicking" was re-recorded to say that the officers were "suspected of using excessive force". Secret audio recordings from an internal meeting were uploaded onto YouTube that included the voice of TVB director Keith Yuen Chi-wai asking "On what grounds can we say officers dragged him to a dark corner, and punched and kicked him?" The protester was later named as Civic Party member Ken Tsang, who was also a member of the Election Committee that returned CY Leung as the city's Chief Executive. About 57 journalists expressed their dissatisfaction with the handling of the broadcast. A petition by TVB staff to management protesting the handling of the event was signed by news staff. The list grew to 80+ people including employees from sports, economics and other departments. In 2015, the video, entitled "Suspected Police Brutality Against Occupy Central Movement's Protester", was declared the Best TV news item at the 55th Monte Carlo TV Festival; it was praised for its "comprehensive, objective and professional" report. It also won a prize at the Edward E. Murrow Awards in the Hard News category.

Internet security firm CloudFlare said that, like for the attacks on PopVote sponsored by OCLP earlier in the year, the volume of junk traffic aimed at paralysing Apple Daily servers was an unprecedented 500 Gbit/s and involved at least five botnets. Servers were bombarded with in excess of 250 million DNS requests per second, equivalent to the average volume of DNS requests for the entire Internet. And where the attacks do not succeed directly, they have caused some internet service providers to pre-emptively block such sites under attack to protect their own servers and lines.

Chinese government and media

Beijing is generally reported as being concerned about similar popular demands for political reform on the mainland that would erode the Communist Party's hold on power. Reuters sources revealed that the decision to offer no concessions was made at a meeting of the National Security Commission of the Chinese Communist Party chaired by General secretary Xi Jinping in the first week of October. " move back one step and the dam will burst," a source was reported as saying, referring to mainland provinces such as Xinjiang and Tibet making similar demands for democratic elections. The New York Times China correspondents say that the strategy for dealing with the crisis in Hong Kong was being planned under supervision from the top-tier national leadership, which was being briefed on a daily basis. According to the report, Hong Kong officials are in meetings behind the scenes with mainland officials in neighbouring Shenzhen, at a resort owned by the central government liaison office. Beijing's direct involvement was confirmed subsequently by pro-establishment figures in Hong Kong. The HKFS, which had been hoping to send a delegation to meet with the leadership in Beijing, was rebuffed by Tung Chee-hwa, vice-chairman of the NPC, whom they asked to help set up the meetings.

Chinese Communist Party general secretary Xi Jinping stated his support for CY Leung on the 44th day of the occupation, saying the occupation was a "direct challenge not just to the SAR and its governance but also to Beijing". Xi also said that Leung's administration must govern to safeguard the rule of law and maintain social order.

Censorship

On 28 September it emerged that Chinese government authorities had issued the following censorship directive: "All websites must immediately clear away information about Hong Kong students violently assaulting the government and about 'Occupy Central.' Promptly report any issues. Strictly manage interactive channels, and resolutely delete harmful information. This must be followed precisely." Censors rapidly deleted messages internet posts with words such as "Hong Kong," "barricades", "Occupy Central" and "umbrella". Sections of the CNN reporting from Hong Kong was also disrupted. Most Chinese newspapers have not covered the protests except for editorials critical of the protests and devoid of any context, or articles mentioning the negative impact of the occupation. The Chinese website of the BBC was completely blocked after a video showing the violent assault on a protester by police on 15 October hosted on the site went viral. Amnesty International reported that dozens of Chinese people have been arrested for showing support for the protests. Facebook and Twitter are already blocked on the mainland, and now as a result of the sharing of images of the protests, PRC censors have now blocked Instagram. However, Reuters noted that searches for "Umbrella Revolution" up to 30 September escaped censors on Sina Weibo but not on Tencent Weibo. Despite this, certain American-funded reporting by the Voice of America and Radio Free Asia was able to break through some of the internet censors and provide information on the protests to inhabitants of the Chinese mainland.

Allegations of foreign interference

Mainland Chinese officials and media have repeatedly alleged that outside forces fomented the protests. Li Fei, the first Chinese official to address Hong Kong about the NPCSC decision, accused democracy advocates of being tools for subversion by Western forces who were set at undermining the authority of the Communist Party. Li alleged that they were "sowing confusion" and "misleading society". The People's Daily claimed that organisers of the Hong Kong protests learned their tactics from supporters of the Sunflower Student Movement in Taiwan, having first sought support from the United Kingdom and the United States. Scholarism has been labelled as extremists and a pro-Beijing journal in Hong Kong alleged that Joshua Wong had been cultivated by "US forces". In one of numerous editorials condemning the occupation, the People's Daily said "The US may enjoy the sweet taste of interfering in other countries' internal affairs, but on the issue of Hong Kong it stands little chance of overcoming the determination of the Chinese government to maintain stability and prosperity". It alleged that the US National Endowment for Democracy was behind the protests, and that a director of the organisation had met with protest leaders. On 15 October, an unnamed Chinese government official stated that "interference certainly exists", citing "the statements and the rhetoric and the behaviour of the outside forces of political figures, of some parliamentarians and individual media".

In a televised interview on 19 October, Chief Executive CY Leung echoed Chinese claims about foreign responsibility for the protests, but declined to give details until an "appropriate time". Six months later, on 22 April 2015, a reporter asked Leung, "has that time come yet?" Leung simply responded, "Well, I stand by what I say." Three years later, Leung had yet to provide the promised substantiation.

The US State Department has categorically rejected accusations of interference, calling the charges "an attempt to distract from...the people expressing their desire for universal suffrage." The South China Morning Post characterised claims of foreign interference as "vastly exaggerated", and longtime Hong Kong democracy advocate Martin Lee said such claims were a "'convenient excuse' for Beijing to cover its shame for not granting the territory true democracy as it once promised."

The China Media Project of the University of Hong Kong noted that the phrase "hostile forces" (敌对势力) – a hardline Stalinist term – has been frequently used in a conspiracy theory alleging foreign sources of instigation. Apart from being used as a straightforward means to avoid blame, analysts said that Chinese claims of foreign involvement, which may be rooted in Marxist ideology, or simply in an authoritarian belief that "spontaneity is impossible", are "a pre-emptive strike making it very difficult for the American and British governments" to support the protests.

Law and order

On 1 October, China News Service criticised the protesters for "bringing shame to the rule of law in Hong Kong"; the People's Daily said that the Beijing stance on Hong Kong's elections is "unshakeable" and legally valid. Stating that the illegal occupation was hurting Hong Kong, it warned of "unimaginable consequences" Some observers remarked that the editorial was similar to the April 26 Editorial that foreshadowed the suppression of the Tiananmen Square protests of 1989. A state television editorial urged authorities to "deploy police enforcement decisively" and "restore the social order in Hong Kong as soon as possible," and again warned of "unimaginable consequences", and a front page commentary in People's Daily on 3 October repeated that the protests "could lead to deaths and injuries and other grave consequences."

By 6 October, official Chinese media outlets called for "all the people to create an anti-Occupy Central atmosphere in the society". The protesters were described as "going against the principle of democracy". A commentary in the China Review News claimed that "the US is now hesitant in its support for the Occupy Central. If those campaign organisers suddenly soften their approach, it will show that their American masters are giving out a different order."

Chinese government officials have routinely affirmed the Chinese government's firm support for the chief Executive and for the continued "necessary, reasonable and lawful" actions by the police against the illegal protests.

Other pronouncements

While the Western press noticed the apparent silence of Hong Kong's richest businessmen since the occupation began, Xinhua News Agency posted an English-language article in the morning of 25 October criticising the absence of condemnation of the occupation from the city's tycoons in response to the protest, but the article was deleted several hours later. A replacement article that appeared that evening, in Chinese, stated how tycoons strongly condemned the protest, and quoted a number of them with pre-occupation soundbites reiterating how the occupation would damage Hong Kong's international reputation, disrupt social disorder and cause other harmful problems to society.

Deputy director of China's National People's Congress Internal and Judicial Affairs Committee, Li Shenming, stated: "In today's China, engaging in an election system of one-man-one-vote is bound to quickly lead to turmoil, unrest and even a situation of civil war." The mainland media also contested the protesters' demands for democracy by blaming the colonial rulers, saying Britain "gave our Hong Kong compatriots not one single day of it", notwithstanding the fact that de-classified British diplomatic documents indicate that the lack of democracy since at least late 1950s was largely attributable to the refusal of the PRC to allow it.

The Chinese authorities are rumoured to have blacklisted 47 entertainers from Hong Kong who had openly supported the suffragists, and the list made the rounds on social media. Denise Ho, Chapman To and actor Anthony Wong, who are among the highest profile supporters of the movement, were strongly criticised by the official Xinhua News Agency. In response to the possible ban from the Chinese market, Chow Yun-fat, was quoted as saying "I'll just make less, then". Reporting of Chow's riposte was subject to Mainland Chinese internet censors.

Beijing refused to grant a visa to Richard Graham, British member of parliament who had said in a parliamentary debate on Hong Kong that Britain had a duty to uphold the principles of the Sino-British joint declaration. This resulted in the cancellation of a visit by a cross-party parliament group due to visit China, led by Peter Mandelson. Graham had also asserted that "Stability for nations is not, in our eyes, about maintaining the status quo regardless, but about reaching out for greater involvement with the people – in this case, of Hong Kong – allowing them a greater say in choosing their leaders and, above all, trusting in the people".

Chinese dissent

In urging students to set aside their protest, Bao Tong, the former political secretary of CCP general secretary Zhao Ziyang, said he could not predict what the leadership would do. He believed Zhao meant universal suffrage where everyone had the right to vote freely, and not this "special election with Chinese characteristics". Bao said today's PRC leaders should respect the principle that Hong Kong citizens rule themselves, or Deng Xiaoping's promises to Hong Kong would have been fake. Hu Jia co-authored an opinion piece for the Wall Street Journal, in which he wrote "China has the potential to become an even more relentless, aggressive dictatorship than Russia... Only a strong, unambiguous warning from the US will cause either of those countries to carefully consider the costs of new violent acts of repression. Hong Kong and Ukraine are calling for the rebirth of American global leadership for freedom and democracy."

Amnesty International said that at least 37 mainland Chinese have been detained for supporting Hong Kong protesters in different ways: some posted pictures and messages online, others had been planning to travel to Hong Kong to join protesters. A poetry reading planned for 2 October in Beijing's Songzhuang art colony to support Hong Kong protesters was disrupted, and a total of eight people were detained. A further 60 people have been taken in for questioning by police. Amnesty reported in February 2015 that at least two of those arrested have been tortured, and nine denied legal representation; one was given access to a lawyer only after being sleep-deprived and tortured for five days. The whereabouts of four are unknown.

Domestic reactions

A double-decker bus in Mong Kok is used as a message board

Political

Former Chief Secretary Anson Chan expressed disappointment at Britain's silence on the matter and urged Britain to assert its legal and moral responsibility towards Hong Kong and not just think about trade opportunities. Chan dismissed China's accusation of foreign interference, saying: "Nobody from outside could possibly stir up this sort of depth of anger and frustration." Former Legco president Rita Fan said "to support the movement, some protesters background have resources that are supported by foreign forces using young people for a cause. To pursue democracy that effects other people's livelihood is a form of democratic dictatorship."

Director of Hong Kong Human Rights Monitor, Law Yuk-kai, was dissatisfied with the unnecessary violence by the police. He said students only broke into the Civic Square to sit-in peacefully with no intentions of destroying government premises. He questioned the mobilisation of riot police while protesters staged no conflict. Also, the overuse of batons was underestimated by the police because the weapon could severely harm protesters. Contrary to the claims of other pro-establishment members, Tsang sees little evidence of "foreign forces" at play. Member of Legislative Council Albert Ho of Democratic Party said, " was one of the tactics used by the communists in mainland China from time to time. They use triads or pro-government mobs to try to attack you so the government will not have to assume responsibility."

Former Chief Executive Tung Chee-hwa when urging the students to end the occupation, praised their "great sacrifice" in the pursuit of democracy, and said that "the rule of law and obeying the law form the cornerstone of democracy."

On 29 October, chairman of the Financial Services Development Council and Executive Councillor, Laura Cha, created controversy for the government and for HSBC, of which she is a board member, when she said: "African-American slaves were liberated in 1861, but did not get voting rights until 107 years later. So why can't Hong Kong wait for a while?" An online petition called for her to apologise and withdraw her remarks. A spokesman for the Executive Council stated in an e-mail on 31 October that "She did not mean any disrespect and regrets that her comment has caused concerns".

Business sector

The Federation of Hong Kong Industries, whose 3,000 manufacturer members are largely unaffected as manufacturing in Hong Kong has been largely de-localised to the mainland, oppose the protests, due to concerns for the effects on investor confidence. While the business groups have expressed concern at the disruption caused to their members, the city's wealthiest individuals have kept a relatively low-profile as they faced the dilemma of losing the patronage of CCP leadership while trying to avoid further escalation with overt condemnations of the movement. On the 19th day, Li Ka-Shing recognised that students' voices had been noted by Beijing, and urged them to go home "to avoid any regret". Li was, however, criticised by Xinhua for not being unambiguous in his opposition for the movement and his support for Leung. Lui Che Woo, one of the richest men in Asia, appeared to hold a more pro-Beijing stance by stating that "citizens should be thankful to the police". Lui was opposed to "any activity that has a negative impact on the Hong Kong economy".

International reactions

Main article: Reactions to the 2014 Hong Kong protests

United Nations

On 23 October, the UN Human Rights Committee, which monitors compliance with the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, urged China to allow free elections in Hong Kong. The committee emphasised specifically that 'universal suffrage' includes the right to stand for office as well as the right to vote. Describing China's actions as "not satisfactory", the committee's chairman Konstantine Vardzelashvili announced that "The main concerns of Committee members were focused on the right to stand for elections without unreasonable restrictions."

A spokesman for China's Foreign Ministry confirmed on the following day that the Covenant, signed by China in 1998, did apply to Hong Kong, but said that, nonetheless, "The covenant is not a measure for Hong Kong's political reform", and that China's policy on Hong Kong's elections had "unshakable legal status and effect". Reuters observed that "It was not immediately clear how, if the covenant applied to Hong Kong, it could have no bearing on its political reform."

States

Many countries, including Australia, Canada, France, Spain, Germany, Italy, Japan, Taiwan, Vatican City, United Kingdom, and the United States, supported the protesters' right to protest and their cause of universal suffrage and urged restraint on all sides, with the notable exception of Russia, whose state media claimed that the protests were another West-sponsored colour revolution similar to the Euromaidan. German president Joachim Gauck, celebrating the 24th anniversary of German reunification, praised the spirit of Hong Kong's suffragists to their own of 24 years ago who overcame their fear of their oppressors;

British Prime Minister David Cameron expressed deep concern about clashes in Hong Kong and said that he felt an obligation to the former colony. Cameron said on 15 October that Britain should stand up for the rights set out in the Anglo-Chinese agreement. The Foreign Office called on Hong Kong to uphold residents' rights to demonstrate, and said that the best way to guarantee these rights is through transition to universal suffrage. Former Hong Kong Governor and current Chancellor of the University of Oxford Chris Patten expressed support for the protests and denounced the Iranian-style democratic model for the city. Citing China's obligation to Britain to adhere to the terms of Sino-British Joint Declaration, he urged the British government to put greater pressure on the Chinese state, and to help China and Hong Kong find a solution to the impasse. The Chinese Foreign Ministry said Patten should realise that "times have changed", and that no party had the right to interfere in China's domestic affairs.

British member of parliament and chairman of the Commons Parliamentary Committee on Foreign Affairs, Richard Ottaway, denounced China's declaration that the committee would be refused permission to enter Hong Kong on their planned visit in late December as part of their inquiry into progress of the implementation of the Sino-British Joint Declaration. Ottaway sought confirmation from the China's deputy ambassador after receiving a letter from the central government that his group's visit "would be perceived to be siding with the protesters involved in Occupy Central and other illegal activities", and was told that the group would be turned back.

In Taiwan, the situation in Hong Kong is closely monitored since China aims to reunify the island with a "one country, two systems" model similar to one that is used in Hong Kong. President Ma Ying-jeou expressed concern for the developments in Hong Kong and its future, and said the realisation of universal suffrage will be a win-win scenario for both Hong Kong and mainland China. On 10 October, Taiwan's National Day, President Ma urged China to introduce constitutional democracy, saying "now that the 1.3 billion people on the mainland have become moderately wealthy, they will of course wish to enjoy greater democracy and rule of law. Such a desire has never been a monopoly of the west, but is the right of all humankind." In response to Ma's comments, China's Taiwan Affairs Office said Beijing was "firmly opposed to remarks on China's political system and Hong Kong's political reforms .... Taiwan should refrain from commenting on the issue."

Foreign media

CNN news team reporting from Admiralty Occupy site, 1.35 pm 29 September 2014

The protests captured the attention of the world and gained extensive global media coverage. Student leader Joshua Wong featured on the cover of Time magazine during the week of his 18th birthday, and the movement was written about, also as a cover story, the following week. While the local pan-democrats and the majority of the Western press supported the protesters' aspirations for universal suffrage, Martin Jacques, writing for The Guardian, argued that the PRC had "overwhelmingly honoured its commitment to the principle of one country, two systems". He believed that the reason for the unrest is "the growing sense of dislocation among a section of Hong Kong's population" since 1997. Tim Summers, in an op-ed for CNN, said that the protests were fuelled by dissatisfaction with the Hong Kong government, but the catalyst was the decision of the NPCSC. Criticising politicians' and the media's interpretation of the agreements and undertakings of the PRC, Summers said "all the Joint Declaration said is that the chief executive will be 'appointed by the central people's government on the basis of the results of elections or consultations to be held locally .' Britain's role as co-signatory of that agreement gives it no legal basis for complaint on this particular point, and the lack of democracy for the executive branch before 1997 leaves it little moral high ground either."

Aftermath

Once traffic resumed, roadside PM2.5 readings rose back up to levels in excess of WHO recommended safe levels of 25 μg/m³. According to the Clean Air Network, PM2.5 levels at Admiralty stood at 33 μg/m³, an increase of 83% since during the occupation; Causeway Bay measured 31 μg/m³, an increase of 55%, and Mong Kok's reading of 37 μg/m represents an increase of 42%. The former director of the government archives, Simon Chu, expressed concern about preservation of official documents pertaining to the protest movement, and was seeking a proxy to file an injunction on the government. He feared that the absence of a law on official archives in Hong Kong meant that senior government officials may seek to destroy all documents involving deliberations, decisions and actions taken while the protests were ongoing.

Chief Executive CY Leung said that protesters need to carefully consider what sort of democracy they are pursuing. He welcomed the end of the occupation, saying: "Other than economic losses, I believe the greatest loss Hong Kong society has suffered is the damage to the rule of law by a small group of people... If we just talk about democracy without talking about the rule of law, it's not real democracy but a state of no government". Leung saw his popularity ratings slump to a new low following the occupation protests, down to 39.7 per cent, with a net of minus 37%. This was attributed to public perception of Leung's unwillingness to heal the wounds, and his unwarranted shifting of the blame for the wrongs in society onto opponents. Leung also claimed negative effects on the economy without providing evidence, and his assertions were contradicted by official figures. On 19 December 2014, the eve of the 15th anniversary of Macau's handover, authorities in Macau banned journalists covering the arrival of Chinese leader Xi Jinping from holding umbrellas in the rain.

Commissioner of the Police Andy Tsang confirmed the unprecedented challenges to the police posed by the occupations, and that as at 15 December a total of 955 individuals had been arrested, 221 activists had been hurt, and that 130 police officers had received light injuries. At the same time, Tsang anticipated further arrests, pending a three-month investigation into the occupation movement. Most activists call in under arrest by appointment remain to be formally charged, and although police said that they reserved the right to prosecute, pro-democracy legislators complained that the uncertain impending prosecution hangs over the interviewees constituted an act of intimidation.

Although the occupations had ended, aggressive policing that became a hallmark of the official antipathy towards peaceful protests continued – as illustrated by police application for Care and Protection Orders (CPO) for two young suffragists in December 2014. Typically, CPOs are only used in severe cases of juvenile delinquency, and could lead to the minor being sent to a children's home and removed from parental custody. Police arrested one 14-year-old male for contempt of court during the clearance of Mong Kok and applied for a CPO. The CPO was cancelled four weeks later when the Department of Justice decided that they would not prosecute.

In a second case, a 14-year-old female who drew a chalk flower onto the Lennon Wall on 23 December 2014 was arrested on suspicion of criminal damage, detained by police for 17 hours, and then held against her will in a children's home for 20 days, but was never charged with any crime. A magistrate decided in favour of a CPO pursuant to a police application, deeming it "safer." The incident created uproar as she was taken away from her hearing-impaired father, and was unable to go to school. On 19 January, another magistrate rescinded the protection order for the girl–now commonly known as "Chalk Girl" (粉筆少女)–however overall handling of the situation by police and government officials raised broad concerns. There is no official explanation as to why proper procedures were not followed or as to why, in accordance with regulations, social workers were never consulted before applying for the order. The controversy gained international attention, and The Guardian produced a short documentary film about her story, titled "The Infamous Chalk Girl" which was released in 2017. Usage of the protection orders against minors involved in the Umbrella Movement was seen as "white terror" to deter young people from protesting.

Post mortems

The Economic Journal predicts a rout as a result of growing alienation and disaffection with the system and with traditional politics. It criticised the means the government employed to deal with the problem, and said that: " legitimacy to govern has been deeply damaged. Officials may be made scapegoats for the mass protests, and the police may have forfeited much of their hard-earned reputation and sound relationship with citizens following charges of brutality and links with triads. The judiciary has also taken a beating after it issued injunctions against the occupation of roads in Mong Kok and Admiralty. This has left many people with the perception that it has colluded with the government and the checks and balances between the two powers are now gone. The government's ill-conceived plan to crack down hard on the protesters under the guise of assisting bailiffs sets a dangerous precedent."

An editorial in The Wall Street Journal said that despite the establishment attempting to portray the occupy movement as a threat to Hong Kong, "it's clear that the real threat to Hong Kong comes from those who bend to Beijing's whims. China and its local proxies ... have mounted a violent march through the institutions that have sustained Hong Kong's stability and prosperity—independent courts, free press, honest law enforcement and more". An editorial in the Washington Post predicted that "Political unrest is likely to become a chronic condition in a place that until now had mostly accepted the authority of the Communist regime since 1997... China's inflexible response to the democracy movement may yield exactly the results it wishes to avoid: an unmanageable political situation in Hong Kong and the spread of the demand for political freedom".

A Guardian editorial wrote: "What China has done in Hong Kong will preserve control but deepen alienation... outside China, where it is seen as yet another indication that compromise and the Chinese communist party are strangers to each other, whether in dealing with non-Han minorities, in territorial issues with neighbours or in relations with other major states." It said that the one country, two systems formula "has been almost completely discredited by events in Hong Kong". It added that "The Chinese are prisoners of another narrative, in which China's rise is a phenomenon benefiting its neighbours as much as itself, in which opponents are seen as a tiny minority manipulated by hostile powers, and in which democracy is a flawed western concept that has no relevance for China".

Business Spectator described the mixed legacy of the resilient protest community that has been created and galvanisation of youth – a previously apolitical section of society – into political activism or heightened awareness of their civil rights and responsibilities. Against that, the resulting divisions in Hong Kong society will leave a void for Beijing to strengthen its role and influence. The journal also agreed that Hong Kong's institutions had been damaged through government actions as well as inaction. Citing the government and police choice to employ civil injunctions to justify clearing the protest sites, it said "In so doing, the government has called the court system into service as a political tool. This politicisation of the court system is known as 'rule by law', a phrase frequently applied to the PRC and which could now be used for the first time with some justification in the context of Hong Kong." It further predicts further erosion of press and academic freedoms, as universities have been shown to be seed beds of political activism and potential subversion.

An article in the Journal of Chinese Political Science notes how the Umbrella Revolution was an instance of "defensive soft power" and that "through the mounting of this defence, certain state-sanctioned images of China are reinforced and promoted. Specifically, these include promoting images that depict China as a victim; portraying China as a reasonable and restraint power; constructing the image of wide support for China's handling of the event and of its of governance; and promoting the perception of strong relations between Macau/Taiwan and the mainland. It contends that these state-aligned images were released defensively to counter the attacks by the western media and this process allowed the Central authorities an opportunity to reinforce and articulate its national images."

Imprisonment of prominent protesters

Main article: 2017 imprisonment of Hong Kong democracy activists

Wong, along with two other prominent Hong Kong pro-democracy student leaders Nathan Law and Alex Chow, were sentenced to six to eight months' imprisonment, on 17 August 2017, for unlawful assembly (Wong and Law) and incitement to assemble unlawfully (Chow) at Civic Square, at the Central Government Complex in the Tamar site, during the protest. The sentences were likely to impair their political careers as they would be barred from running for public office for five years. Earlier, on 15 August 2017, 13 fellow protesters were sentenced to terms between 8 and 13 months for unlawful assembly.

Nobel Peace Prize nomination

On 5 October 2017 the Congressional-Executive Commission on China (CECC) Chair US Senator Marco Rubio and co-chair US Representative Chris Smith announced their intention to nominate Joshua Wong, Nathan Law, Alex Chow and the entire Umbrella Movement for the 2018 Nobel Peace Prize, for "their peaceful efforts to bring political reform and protect the autonomy and freedoms guaranteed Hong Kong in the Sino-British Joint Declaration".

See also

References

Notes

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Sources

Further reading

Library resources about
2014 Hong Kong protests
  • Kong, Tsung-gan (2017). Umbrella: a Political Tale from Hong Kong. United States: Pema Press. ISBN 9780997238532.

External links

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