China’s National Security Legislation for Hong Kong
China is set to make Hong Kong national security laws as a related decision was adopted at the national legislature on May 28. What does it mean to Hong Kong and why is it important? Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions, as supplied by the Chinese Embassy in Suva.
Why does Hong Kong need the legislation?
Hong Kong is part of China and as such, it shoulders the constitutional responsibility of safeguarding national security. The legislation in Hong Kong is something the Central Government has all along attached importance to and supported in accordance with the Constitution of the PRC and the Basic Law of the HKSAR. But because of the obstruction by anti-China troublemakers in the city and external hostile forces, the national security legislation is yet to materialize 23 years after Hong Kong’s return.
This legal loophole has been taken advantage of by local and foreign anti-China forces. Activities jeopardizing national security have become increasingly rampant in Hong Kong.
Last year, rioters besieged the HKSAR government headquarters and public agencies, broke into and vandalized the HKSAR LegCo building, trashed metro stations, banks and stores, assaulted police officers, set fires on the streets, beat up tourists and residents and even made terrorist threats.
Considering Hong Kong’s situation at present, efforts must be made at the state level to safeguard national security and to change its defenseless status.
Will it change “One Country, Two Systems” Policy?
No. The legislation will not change the “One Country, Two Systems” policy. It will not change the capitalist system or the high degree of autonomy of Hong Kong. It will not change the legal system in the HKSAR.
Nor will it affect the independent judicial power, including that of final adjudication, exercised by the judiciary in Hong Kong. China will remain committed to policies of “One Country, Two Systems”, “Hong Kong people administering Hong Kong” with a high degree of autonomy and lawbased governance of Hong Kong, as we always do.
Will people’s rights, freedom remain protected?
Yes. The law-based freedom of speech, of the press, of assembly, of demonstration, of procession enjoyed by Hong Kong residents will not be disturbed, their daily lives will not be affected, and the security of their property will continue to be protected. The legislation will target only acts of secession, subverting state power and organising and carrying out terrorist activities, as well as interference in the HKSAR’s internal affairs by foreign or external forces. It is the small minority of criminals jeopardizing national security that will be punished.
Do many Hong Kong people oppose the legislation?
Quite the contrary, the legislation has been well received by the vast majority of Hong Kong residents as they believe it will make life here safer.
The legislation will also help consolidate Hong Kong’s status as an international financial hub as many business leaders want a stable and safe environment to invest and live in. The unrest following the proposed amendment bill has helped Hong Kong citizens see it clearer that without a harmonious and stable environment, they could not lead peaceful lives.
And when the national security loopholes remain open, their personal safety, and even the basic rights to go to school and work or simply move around cannot be protected.
Safeguarding national security is the common will of the majority of citizens who care for Hong Kong.
Do other countries also have laws protecting national security?
Yes. No state will allow any activities that endanger its national security on its own territory. In general, western countries have built sound legal systems on national security, covering legislation, law enforcement, prosecution, trials and other aspects. It is a duty for every government to pursue policies to cement national security in its own country.
Over the years, some western countries such as the United States and Britain have forged a sophisticated system of laws and regulations to maintain national security.
Ironically, while making their own security laws, they are seeking to undermine China’s endeavor to safeguard sovereignty on its own soil. That has unmistakably exposed their hypocrisy of practicing double standards.