Supporting data for Social Movements in Hong Kong: An Evolutionary Perspective

This research examines this social movement through an evolutionary lens, utilising the frameworks of social movement theory and collective violence and protest policing models. The analysis is structured on three levels: macro, meso and micro, providing a thorough understanding of the dynamics in play.

The methodology component includes a review of relevant literature and qualitative interviews with 40 participants, both police officers and protesters. These interviews provide a multidimensional perspective of the events, capturing personal experiences and insights that are not accessible through public records or media reports.

Through these different levels of analysis, this study aims to offer significant insights into the causes, dynamics and consequences of the 2019 social movement in Hong Kong. The findings contribute to the broader field of social movement research, suggesting how similar movements might be better understood or managed in the future. This research not only sheds light on the specific case of Hong Kong but also contributes to the global discourse on civil liberties, protest movements and the role of law enforcement in democratic societies.