At least 30 trade unions in Hong Kong have reportedly called for a general strike on 27 May 2020 due to the central government’s proposed national security legislation as well as a proposed national anthem law slated for debate by the city’s legislature. Protests are likely to develop in response to the legislation; however, expected turnout and possible demonstration sites are currently unknown. As a precaution, authorities have increased security around the Legislative Council building located in the city’s Admiralty area, which is a popular venue for anti-government demonstrations. A ban on gatherings of more than eight people remains in effect until 4 June, and police officers have forcibly dispersed the recent demonstrations that violated the order.
On 24 May police officers deployed tear gas against thousands of demonstrators along Hennessey Road and Percival St in Causeway Bay. Demonstrators gathered at SOGO department store in Causeway Bay and were marching to Wan Chai’s Southorn Playground to protest the proposed national security law. Officials had not authorized the demonstrations due to the current ban on large gatherings. There were no reports of significant injuries, but authorities arrested approximately 200 demonstrators.
