Selina Cheng, the former Wall Street Journal reporter and current head of the Hong Kong Journalists Association, has initiated legal action against her former employer, claiming "unreasonable dismissal." Cheng alleges she was fired shortly after taking on her union leadership role, which raises questions about press freedom and employee rights in Hong Kong.
Cheng, who primarily reported on the Chinese electric vehicle industry, found herself unemployed this past July, just weeks after her election as chair of the Hong Kong Journalists Association (HKJA). The abrupt termination followed what she describes as unfounded sentiments from her supervisors at the Journal. According to Cheng, her supervisor cautioned her against engaging with media advocacy, stating, "employees should not be seen as advocating for press freedom in a place like Hong Kong." This comment has struck a deep chord, reflecting the turbulent atmosphere for journalists operating within the region.
Cheng voiced her strong discontent with the treatment she received, asserting, "I think the Wall Street Journal has done irreparable damage to my own reputation and the Hong Kong Journalists Association's reputation." Despite her repeated attempts to address this internally, including filing complaints, Cheng reported her grievances received no follow-up from management. After her requests for reinstatement were categorically denied, her last resort was to proceed with legal action.
Under the provision of local employment law, employers found guilty of terminating employees based on their association with trade unions can face substantial penalties, including fines of up to HK$100,000 (approximately US$12,856). Cheng revealed she not only filed a civil claim with the Labour Department but also intends to lodge a criminal report against the Journal.
The dismissal highlights broader systemic challenges facing press freedom in the region. Recent years have seen Hong Kong's ranking for press freedom deteriorate significantly, coinciding with increased governmental pressure following the 2019 pro-democracy protests. The Hong Kong Journalists Association has faced scrutiny from authorities, with figures such as Security Minister Chris Tang alleging the union fosters animosity and unrest against the government.
With Cheng's lawsuit underway, it not only raises questions about her individual case but also signals potential ramifications for the Journal and its commitment to press freedom. The Wall Street Journal, under its parent company, Dow Jones Media Group, has yet to publicly comment on the lawsuit or Cheng's claims. These revelations come against the backdrop of heightened scrutiny on global media standards and the right of journalists to operate without fear of retribution for advocating freedom of the press.
This situation embodies the struggles many journalists face worldwide as they navigate the precarious balance between their rights as employees and the operations of media organizations. The outcome of Cheng's case could have far-reaching effects on how similar disputes are resolved within the industry and may encourage other journalists facing backing from unions to take action.
While Hong Kong traditionally enjoyed relatively high levels of press freedom compared to mainland China, the dynamics have drastically shifted. Beijing's increasing influence over the semi-autonomous territory has led to fears among journalists about whistleblowing and striving for transparency, as Cheng’s case poignantly exemplifies. The next steps of this litigation will be closely monitored, as they encapsulate up-to-date debates about rights and freedoms for media personnel within oppressive environments.
