Robert Koepp Discusses The Movement In Hong Kong

Robert Koepp, Director and the Chief Economist, the Corporate Network in Hong Kong for The Economist Group

Mr. Koepp has published on a wide-variety of topics and contributes to the network's annual Asia Business Outlook Survey. He's the author of two books.

Robert Koepp highlighted the current economic impact of the demonstrations. He noted that Hong Kong is dependent on the mainland for most of its tourists and that mainland visitors had essentially stopped coming and buying luxury goods. He also pointed to drops in the Hong Kong stock market and in property prices. At the same time, he noted that there was not capital flight. Koepp observed that Hong Kong has a functioning judicial system and that rule of law is the norm, pointing to the respect shown the court injunction against hampering the flow of people at the airport.
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Panelists examined the issues driving the protests in Hong Kong, the social composition and motivations of the protesters and counter-protesters, and how the various sides are using media to reach local, mainland and international audiences.

This event was part of the USC Annenberg Communication 310 course, “Media and Society,” taught by Professor Robert Scheer.

[chuasc]

These are no longer protests but rioting and even to the point of terrorism. Initially, there were large amount of support but now the movement has degraded to extremism. So, these criminals are putting up crazy demands and even pushing for independence for Hong Kong. Is political violence as now seen in Hong Kong acceptable and are the demands reasonable?