Hong Kong protest anthem removed from Apple Music and Spotify

In anticipation of a renewed crackdown by Beijing on pro-democracy demonstrations, a Hong Kong protest song has been removed from Apple Music and Spotify. Local reports suggest that versions of the anthem Glory To Hong Kong are inaccessible on online streaming platforms within the territory, following the Hong Kong government’s recent injunction to ban the song.

The pro-democracy song has been removed from various social media and streaming sites, including Spotify, Apple’s iTunes, Instagram, and Facebook, according to the Hong Kong Free Press. The timing of its disappearance coincides with Beijing’s impending crackdown. Hong Kong’s leader, John Lee, who is backed by China, stated earlier this week that Glory To Hong Kong is “not compatible with the national interest.”

Hong Kong officials have cited the song as promoting secession from China and have labeled it an “insult to the national anthem.” They emphasize that “freedom of speech is not absolute” and caution Hong Kongers against breaking the law.

In proactive efforts to safeguard national security, Mr. Lee highlighted the duty of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. Chinese officials are currently seeking a legal injunction to criminalize the song, including reproducing it online or engaging in activities such as broadcasting, performing, printing, publishing, or selling it. This ban is pursued under the controversial National Security Law implemented by Beijing in 2020.

Following the announcement of the injunction, there was a significant increase in downloads of the song on Apple’s iTunes. Unlike streaming platforms, purchasing the song on iTunes enables users to retain a copy even if it is removed. Spotify confirmed that the song’s distributor removed it from the streaming service’s catalog, according to the Hong Kong Free Press.