After many years of British rule, Hong Kong, a peninsula and islands jutting out from China’s southern coast, was returned to China in 1997. The Chinese government agreed that for the next 50 years, the residents of Hong Kong could continue to embrace capitalism and enjoy democratic freedoms, a sharp contrast to repressive conditions in mainland China. Recently, though, the Chinese government reversed its promises and began to restrict the legal rights of Hong Kong citizens, prompting protests and, in response, a government crackdown. Listen to a reporter describe how Chinese authorities have repressed basic freedoms in Hong Kong and transformed the daily lives of its residents.
Story Length: 6:43
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May 28, 2021
6:23
The right to free speech at school is limited. Expression that disrupts school activities, for example, is not allowed. But what if a student posts on social media from home? Can schools discipline students for disruptive speech even if it takes place off school property? Some say the location of a student posting online speech is meaningless, and school officials should have the right to discipline students for violations wherever they occur. Others say that giving schools that power amounts to trampling on students’ rights. Listen to learn about a high school cheerleader whose case against her school reached the Supreme Court and then debate: Can schools discipline students for online speech?
Read MoreAugust 6, 2019
3:36
In Hong Kong, protesters have been clashing with police as ongoing conflict on the streets of Hong Kong continues. Activists fear Hong Kong’s democracy is in danger because of the influence the government of mainland China has on their leaders and their lives. Listen to learn why protesters are concerned about the future of Hong Kong and its citizens, and find out what they are willing to do to protect it.
Read MoreMarch 5, 2019
3:55
A journalist in the Philippines who has been critical of the government was recently arrested for the sixth time, raising concerns among champions of press freedom around the world. The arrest was based on false charges, and the journalist may be in danger in a country where the press has been regularly targeted by an authoritarian government. Listen to this interview with a representative of Reporters without Borders, an organization that reports on press freedom, about the risks facing journalists worldwide.
Read MoreJanuary 12, 2018
4:17
China has passed a new law that states people who protest its national anthem can face prison time. In places like Hong Kong, this law has sparked outrage. They believe that by singing the anthem, they are giving in to China's rule and lack of free speech. Legislators in Hong Kong are facing the dilemma of how they will enforce the new law, especially when masses of people refuse to sing the anthem, such as at a sports event. Listen to learn how those who oppose the law plan to get around it and then debate: Would you risk arrest for something you believe in?
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