Crackdowns by Beijing and severe COVID restrictions have undermined its status. Friday marks the anniversary of the transfer of control.

U.S. officials suggest countering Beijing by downgrading ties with Hong Kong, drawing protests from business lobby.

Also making news: China’s premier Li Keqiang broke from tradition and did not announce an economic growth target.

“Beijing is making it clear that well-behaved territories will get carrots and unruly territories are going to get sticks,” one observer said.

The U.S. laws mandate sanctions on Chinese and Hong Kong officials who carry out human rights abuses in Hong Kong.

Three protesters from around the world, in their own words.

“I will encourage them to join in the demonstration because Hong Kong is our city,” the mother of a protester said.

“I have to talk to the government because they can’t do what they want,” one protester said.

Billions of dollars in revenue is at stake for the NBA.

Protesters swarm its airport, canceling most flights to one of the busiest hubs in the world.