The editor-in-chief of the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) immediately responded with “All for doing a job as a journalist” when Evan Gershkovich, one of the company’s journalists, was sentenced to 16 years in prison by Russian authorities for allegedly violating espionage laws.
We commend WSJ for their strong stance against the unjust trial of Evan Gershkovich by Russian authorities. However, it is concerning that within the same organization, there seems to be a contradictory position towards a journalist’s efforts to defend press freedom through a union, leading to her dismissal in Hong Kong.
On July 17, Selina Cheng, who had recently been elected as chair of the Hong Kong Journalists Association (HKJA), was abruptly dismissed by WSJ citing restructuring reasons. However, Cheng claims that the restructuring had started earlier, and she was initially assured that her position was secure and valued.
Prior to her dismissal, Cheng was asked by a supervisor to withdraw from the union election, stating that her roles as a WSJ reporter and union leader were incompatible. This raises suspicions that WSJ used the restructuring as an excuse to dismiss her after failing to deter her from participating in the union election.
Participation in unions is a fundamental right protected by Hong Kong law and international conventions. Employers cannot infringe on this right, as it is illegal under the law.
The incident not only violates basic human rights but also further suppresses press freedom in Hong Kong, where the HKJA has been a vocal advocate for journalists’ rights and media freedom. WSJ’s actions have exacerbated the already challenging environment for press freedom in the region.
Press freedom is a universal human right that should be upheld regardless of geographical boundaries. We should support journalists facing threats to their freedom and not penalize them for their dedication to journalism.
The dismissal of Selina Cheng has sparked outrage globally, and we urge WSJ management to provide a transparent explanation and reconsider their decision.