Pro-democracy protests have started to de-escalate in Hong Kong following district council elections

Today, the Civil Human Rights Front (CHRF) will hold a pro-democracy demonstration in Hong Kong. The CHRF has received permission to protest today, in contrast to the group’s previous requests over the last four months.

This shift follows the victory of pro-democracy candidates in 90% of Hong Kong’s district council seats at elections on November 24. While district councils have some legislative influence, Beijing still wields ultimate control over Hong Kong’s government. However, the success of pro-democracy candidates has opened a legitimate avenue for them to express their grievances.

While many protesters are still taking to the streets demanding more meaningful say on the selection of leaders, an inquiry into the police response, and amnesty for the 6,000 arrested protesters, the amount of activism on the street has decreased. Chief Executive Carrie Lam’s refusal to accept any more concessions is also not encouraging for the protest movement.

With the election victory presenting the image that democracy advocates now have a strong say in government affairs, expect the numbers at the protests to start to dwindle.

Wake up smarter with an assessment of the stories that will make headlines in the next 24 hours. Download The Daily Brief.