This episode of "Bridging Hongkongers: This Week Unpacked" delves into major headlines from the past week, drawing on reporting from the source.

First, The 2025 World Press Freedom Index reveals that Hong Kong's ranking has plummeted to a record low of 140th globally, placing the city in the "red zone" indicating a "very serious" situation. This marks a stark decline from its previous standing as a bastion of press freedom in Asia. Sources highlight how the National Security Law (NSL) and Article 23 legislation have fueled a crackdown, leading to the closure of independent media like Apple Daily and Stand News and legal charges against journalists. We discuss the resulting pervasive self-censorship, the loss of the public's right to know, and the negative impacts on Hong Kong's economy and international standing.

Next we analyze the results of the UK 2025 Local Elections. These elections saw a major shift, with Nigel Farage’s Reform UK achieving a "landslide victory," securing 677 seats and two mayoral posts. This delivered a "severe blow" to the governing Labour Party, which lost 198 seats and key local areas. The election also featured a record low turnout of 29.5%, reflecting voter apathy and discontent with Labour's early governance. Reform UK's surge challenges the UK's traditional two-party system and poses significant challenges for Labour's ability to govern effectively over the next four years.

Finally, we examine the complex dynamics within the British Royal Family. Prince Harry has publicly expressed a desire for family reconciliation with his brother Prince William and father King Charles. However, sources suggest his wife, Meghan Markle, is portrayed as a "royal soap opera diva" whose actions, such as public tell-alls and defying royal traditions, have stirred up drama and made reconciliation tricky. We'll cover key points like the lasting rift since "Megxit", the impact of Harry's memoir Spare, public interviews, and the views of other royals like King Charles and Princess Catherine on the situation.