Background:
In 2003, an unknown epidemic, later known as the SARS, took the lives of about 300 Hong Kong people. The resultant economic recession and the proposed legislation on the Basic Law Article 23 led to immense dissatisfaction among the Hong Kong people. Article 23, which involved anti-subversion, triggered widespread fear for the loss of freedom of speech. The way the Chinese authorities and the Hong Kong government handled the dissidents had added to this fear. The government’s failure in dealing with the economic crisis after SARS also heightened discontent towards the Chief Executive Tung Chee-hwa and his government to an unprecedented level.
Details:
General discontentment towards the government brought around 500,000 (or even higher according to some reports) people to the streets on 1 July. They demand the resignation of Tung Chee-wah (and several principal officials) and the withdrawal of the Article 23 legislation.
Consequences:
The protest led to the defection of the Liberal Party, forcing the government to withdraw Article 23. The march also resulted in the resignation of two top officials (including Regina Ip, who was responsible for the legislation), and arguably Tung himself two years later.
The march becomes a regular annual event on 1 July organized by the Civil Human Rights Front. Different political organizations and pressure groups make use of this occasion to voice their political concerns, gather support, and raise funds.
News Report from CNN, 02 July 2003
News Report from BBC News, 07 July 2003
News Report from BBC News, 09 July 2003
Pro-Beijing commentary, Wen Wei Po, 03 July 2003 (Chinese) (English-translated)
Pro-Democracy commentary, Apple Daily, 01 July 2003 (Chinese) (English-translated)