Title: Hong Kong plans to develop its own national security law in 2024
Introduction :
In his annual policy address, Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee announced that the city plans to draft its own national security law in 2024. The move comes four years after Beijing imposed of a national security law that aimed to suppress dissent in Hong Kong. The announcement aims to strengthen the city’s national security while improving its legal system and control mechanisms.
Context :
In 2019, Hong Kong was rocked by major pro-democracy protests, where hundreds of thousands of people demanded greater freedoms and autonomy from mainland China. In response to these protests, Beijing imposed a national security law that criminalizes secession, subversion, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces. This law led to the arrest of activists and the flight of many others abroad.
Hong Kong’s constitutional responsibility:
Under the Basic Law, Hong Kong’s constitution, the city has an obligation to develop its own security legislation, including offenses such as treason and espionage. However, this task has not yet been achieved, despite more than 25 years since Hong Kong’s handover to China in 1997. In 2003, a previous attempt to draft the national security law was abandoned after massive protests from the population.
Strengthening patriotic education:
In addition to drafting a national security law, John Lee also announced that the city would expand patriotic education to strengthen national identity. A working group will be established to promote national education and comply with the Patriotic Education Law of the People’s Republic of China. This announcement follows Beijing’s adoption of a law aimed at strengthening patriotic education for children and families.
Conclusion :
Hong Kong’s decision to draft its own national security law in 2024 aims to preserve the city’s national security while improving its legal system and control mechanisms. This shows Hong Kong’s willingness to protect its interests while complying with Beijing’s demands. However, the move also raises questions about Hong Kong’s freedoms and autonomy, which continue to be challenged by mainland China’s growing influence.