YouTube to restrict Hong Kong protest anthem videos following court order | Global News

Alphabet’s YouTube to Block Hong Kong’s Protest Anthem Videos After Court Order

Alphabet’s YouTube announced on Tuesday that it would comply with a court decision to block access to 32 video links deemed prohibited content in Hong Kong. The action comes after a government application granted by Hong Kong’s Court of Appeal requested the ban of a protest anthem called “Glory to Hong Kong.”

The judges warned that dissidents could potentially weaponize the song to incite secession, prompting the court to take action. In response to the ruling, YouTube expressed disappointment but stated that they would comply with the removal order while considering options for an appeal to promote access to information.

The move to block the videos will take effect immediately for viewers in Hong Kong, with links to the content eventually no longer showing up on Google Search as the company’s systems process the changes. The court ruling targeted individuals who broadcast or distribute the song with the intent of inciting secession or suggesting Hong Kong is an independent state.

“Glory to Hong Kong” was written in 2019 during pro-democracy protests and has become an unofficial anthem in the region. The Chinese Foreign Ministry has supported the ban, stating that stopping the song’s spread is necessary to safeguard national security.

YouTube has expressed concerns that the content ban could restrict free expression online, echoing sentiments from human rights groups. The Hong Kong government has not yet responded to requests for comment on the court’s decision.