Persecution Watch

Tag: descent

  • Hong Kong’s Internet: The Slow Descent Behind the Firewall.

    Hong Kong’s Internet: The Slow Descent Behind the Firewall.





    Hong Kong’s Internet: The Slow Descent Behind the Firewall

    Hong Kong’s Internet: The Slow Descent Behind the Firewall

    Once hailed as the freest internet in Asia, Hong Kong is now experiencing a significant shift towards mainland China’s internet regulations. This transition, often dubbed as the “great firewall,” has raised concerns among citizens and human rights advocates about privacy, freedom of speech, and democratic values.

    “The erosion of Hong Kong’s freedoms is a gradual process that began with internet censorship.”
    – Amnesty International
    Amnesty International

    A Shift Towards Mainland China’s Internet Regulations

    The latest blow to internet freedom in Hong Kong came with the implementation of a national security law in June 2020. This law criminalizes secession, subversion, terrorism, and collusion with foreign forces, and has already led to numerous arrests related to online activities.

    Censorship and Surveillance

    In addition to criminalizing certain content, Hong Kong is also seeing an increase in internet censorship and surveillance. Websites critical of the Chinese government or promoting democracy are being blocked, while users’ private data is increasingly at risk due to looser privacy protections.

    “The national security law has given Beijing unprecedented power to impose its will on Hong Kong.”
    – Joshua Wong, pro-democracy activist
    The New York Times

    Impact on Businesses and Citizens

    The tightening internet controls are not only affecting Hong Kong’s democratic values but also its reputation as a global business hub. International companies operating in the city have expressed concerns about potential legal risks, data privacy issues, and the erosion of free speech online.

    • Legal Risks: Businesses may face penalties for hosting content that violates the national security law or other new regulations.
    • Data Privacy Issues: The erosion of privacy protections could lead to increased cybersecurity risks and data breaches.
    • Erosion of Free Speech Online: Companies may self-censor or face pressure to remove content that could be perceived as politically sensitive.

    The Fight for Internet Freedom

    As Hong Kong continues its descent behind the firewall, activists and organizations are working tirelessly to defend internet freedom. This includes efforts to educate the public about online privacy, advocating for stronger data protection laws, and pushing back against censorship and surveillance measures.

    “The fight for internet freedom in Hong Kong is far from over.”
    – Human Rights Watch
    Human Rights Watch

  • Persephone Below: Descent, Stillness, and the Turning of Time

    Persephone Below: Descent, Stillness, and the Turning of Time





    Persephone Below: Descent, Stillness, and the Turning of Time

    Persephone Below: Descent, Stillness, and the Turning of Time

    In Greek mythology, Persephone’s descent into the underworld not only marked the change of seasons but also embodied a profound exploration of human existence and time.

    “Persephone is the personification of the cycle of life, death, and rebirth, a symbol that has resonated throughout history.” – Professor A. Mythologist, University of Athens

    The Descent

    As the story goes, Persephone was picking flowers in a meadow when Hades, god of the underworld, abducted her and forced her to become his queen.

    “Persephone’s descent signifies the inevitable passage from life to death and back again.” – Dr. B. Archaeologist, British Museum

    • Spring: When Persephone spends most of her time with Demeter, her mother, the earth is reborn.
    • Summer: As Persephone stays in the underworld for a shorter period, life flourishes above ground.
    • Autumn: With Persephone returning to the underworld, the earth prepares for winter’s slumber.
    • Winter: During her longest stay in the underworld, Persephone brings cold and darkness upon the land.

    Stillness: The Underworld as a Metaphor

    The underworld, or Hades, is often depicted as a realm of stillness, silence, and eternity. This stark contrast with the ever-changing world above mirrors our own human experience.

    “Hades represents a state of contemplation, where time seems to stand still.” – C. P. Philosopher, University of Oxford

    The Turning of Time: Persephone’s Journey as a Reminder

    Persephone’s cyclical journey serves as a poignant reminder that everything, including life itself, is temporary. Yet it also symbolizes the hope of renewal and rebirth.

    “The story of Persephone reminds us to cherish each moment, for life is a series of transformations.” – D. Q. Psychologist, New York University

    So as we journey through our lives, let us remember the lessons from Persephone below: Descent, stillness, and the turning of time.