Home

Overhaul looms for Hong Kong broadcaster

AAP
Hong Kong's public broadcaster was reviewed after its coverage of pro-democracy protests.
Camera IconHong Kong's public broadcaster was reviewed after its coverage of pro-democracy protests.

A government review of Hong Kong's public broadcaster RTHK found editorial management 'deficiencies' and a lack of transparency in handling complaints, signalling a major overhaul of the revered institution and raising concerns over media freedoms.

Radio Television Hong Kong, founded in 1928 and sometimes compared to the British Broadcasting Corporation, is the only independent, publicly funded media outlet on Chinese soil. It is guaranteed editorial independence by its charter.

It angered the Hong Kong government, its police force, and Beijing with its coverage of anti-government protests that shook the city in 2019, including several investigations that led to widespread criticism of the authorities.

Last year, the Commerce Bureau announced an unprecedented, government-led review of RTHK's governance and management - spanning its administration, financial control and manpower - to ensure it complied with its charter.

Get in front of tomorrow's news for FREE

Journalism for the curious Australian across politics, business, culture and opinion.

READ NOW

Get the latest news from thewest.com.au in your inbox.

Sign up for our emails