In Hong Kong, a new bookstore closes its doors under multiple inspections. In December, several independent bookstores in Hong Kong reported an increase in inspections by the authorities, sometimes following anonymous complaints.
A second national security law came into force at the end of March in the semi-autonomous Chinese territory. Rights defenders fear the law could relegate any expression of pro-democracy sentiments underground and stifle cultural and artistic freedoms. The Hong Kong government says the new security law will not restrict freedom of expression.