In February, the Hong Kong Journalists Association lodged a complaint with the Communications Authority regarding known falsehoods about the HKJA broadcast by two free television channels in Hong Kong.

The HKJA is disappointed that the CA rejected this complaint. It is a basic principle of journalism — followed around the world — that when an individual or organization is reported on or criticized, they are given a right of reply, and that known falsehoods and misinformation should not be repeated. If it is, it should be placed in a factual context. It would be a dereliction of duty if journalists amplify statements of facts without putting any effort into ensuring that these were true.

These principles apply regardless of the topic or who is making such claims, but it is especially important when false statements are repeated by high-level government officials. As seen during television election debates in other countries, moderators added factual context and rebutted misinformation even during a live broadcast. The HKJA hopes that Hong Kong media will adopt a similar standard.

Hong Kong Journalists Association
1 November 2024

Complaint letter from HKJA to CA:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1KnRAeuWQgDLSzegAQvzLZY0zQgC7Pc8OVrgaeeeu4rw/edit?tab=t.0

CA’s Reply to HKJA’s Complaint:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/12MwYQU9skXEY2QBDWdI8VXm6pcAAeqMJ/view?usp=drive_link