In brief
With press freedom at risk, Hong Kong journalists are alarmed by recent tax investigations targeting their media institutions and personal finances, as these audits reflect mounting pressures in an increasingly oppressive environment.
Journalists in Hong Kong are finding their already precarious situation worsened as they face investigations into their taxes, adding further stress during a time when press freedom is being scrutinized. The Hong Kong Journalists Association reported escalating concerns on Wednesday, revealing that both the association and multiple independent news organizations, along with their founders, are under investigation. This trend is viewed as an additional factor in the ongoing suppression of journalistic voices following years of government crackdowns and tightening controls initiated by national security laws.Reports indicate that some journalists are facing inspections not only of their professional financial dealings but also of the personal tax statuses of their spouses or parents. Many have received significant tax demands, with some journalists required to present up to seven years’ worth of financial documents—an exhausting process for those in an already strained profession. Selina Cheng, chair of the association, emphasized the lack of substantial evidence supporting these tax inquiries, noting instances where income claims may have overlooked necessary business expenses. Cheng highlighted the challenges that journalists face, narrating the struggle not only to comply with these new demands but also to prove their innocence against often inflated tax claims. The Inland Revenue Department defended their procedures by asserting that the number of tax investigations conducted is generally low and is carried out uniformly, regardless of the taxpayer's industry or background—a statement met with skepticism by those within the media field. As the environment for press coverage continues to tighten in Hong Kong, these tax investigations pose yet another hurdle for journalists striving to report freely and accurately.
