French Journalist Denied Entry to Hong Kong, RSF Slams 'Weaponising' of Visas

The NGO Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has sounded the alarm over the escalating restrictions on foreign journalists in Hong Kong, detailing the case of French journalist Antoine Vedeilhe who was denied entry and deported in November. RSF’s statement paints a grim picture of Hong Kong’s tightening grip on the media landscape, accusing the city’s authorities of systematically 'weaponising visas' against international press. This incident, where Vedeilhe was detained and deported without a clear explanation, is presented not as an isolated event but as part of a disturbing pattern.

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Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has said that a French journalist was denied entry to Hong Kong in November, accusing the city’s authorities of “weaponising visas” against foreign media workers.

According to RSF, Vedeilhe was in Hong Kong to film a documentary for France Télévisions, a project that reportedly examined Beijing's increasing influence over the city. His experience, including a three-hour detention, a full-body search, and subsequent deportation, suggests a deliberate attempt to obstruct journalistic work. The NGO further alleges that Vedeilhe’s sources were harassed by national security police and that his email account was targeted, indicating a coordinated effort to stifle reporting and intimidate those involved.

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He was detained for three hours before being deported without being given a reason, RSF said in a statement on Friday.

This case is particularly concerning from Hong Kong's perspective, as it underscores the erosion of the city's once-vaunted status as a free hub for international media. RSF’s assertion that Vedeilhe’s deportation was a reprisal for his work directly challenges the narrative of normalcy and stability promoted by the authorities. The NGO’s claim that this is the 13th foreign media worker denied entry or a visa since the imposition of the national security law in 2020, with fears of underreporting due to retaliation, highlights a chilling effect on press freedom. For journalists and observers who value Hong Kong’s unique position, these actions represent a significant departure from its past, aligning it more closely with mainland China's restrictive information controls.

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Vedeilhe was the 13th foreign media workers who has been denied entry or a visa by the city’s authorities following the Beijing’s imposition of the national security law in 2020, RSF said.