YouTube has said that it will comply with a court decision and block access inside Hong Kong to 32 video links.
The court issued the order on Tuesday.
The online video-sharing platform has shared concerns voiced by human rights groups that the order could nullify free expression online. It added that it would be filing an appeal.
The order comes after Hong Kong’s Court of Appeal banned a protest anthem called “Glory to Hong Kong.”
The song “Glory to Hong Kong” was written in 2019. It is now an unofficial alternative anthem to China’s “March of the Volunteers.”
Pro-democracy protests had taken place in Hong Kong during 2019-20.
A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman said stopping the song’s spread was necessary to safeguard national security.
Hong Kong does not have an official anthem.
The US has said the ban will further undermine Hong Kong’s international reputation as an international financial hub.
Industry groups, including the Asia Internet Coalition (AIC) have also condemned the decision. The AIC, which represents firms like Meta, Apple and Google, said keeping a free and open internet in Hong Kong is “fundamental.”
It added that it helps maintain the city’s edge.
The Hong Kong government did not respond to requests for comment.
(REUTERS)
