Officials say these measures are about balance and public order. But the balance has tipped towards control. Protesters and legal observers alike describe confusion about what is lawful, inconsistent police instructions and arbitrary arrests, even when organisers have coordinated with the police in advance. Activists are jailed for actions that only a few years ago would have resulted in a discharge, a fine or a suspended sentence. The result is growing uncertainty and hesitation that discourages people from speaking out or taking to the streets.