Two HKFP publications have been nominated as finalists in the annual Society of Publishers in Asia (SOPA) awards. Both entries related to the 2019 Hong Kong protests that began in opposition to an anti-extradition bill in June last year.
Kris Cheng’s explainer on the methodology of the Hong Kong protests was nominated for the regional subcategory of Excellence in Explanatory Reporting. Covering the storming of the Legislative Council Complex on July 1, 2019, the piece examines the political events that led up to the historic moment, giving context to the causes of the tension and dissatisfaction which fuelled the occupation. It formed part of a series of explainers on the 2019 movement.
Photographer May James’ coverage of the protests also earned a place among the finalists for the regional subcategory of Excellence in Photography.
One of the three images considered shows a police officer with his boot on a protester’s head, while another shows a line-up of protesters in full protective gear, touting street signs and umbrellas, blocking a street in Sheung Wan.
Established in 1999, the SOPA awards recognise editorial excellence in both new media and traditional journalism in the Asia-Pacific region.
The final winners of the SOPA 2020 Awards will be announced via livestream on August 26 at 7pm (HKT).
