Opinion | Hong Kong must have faith that national security law will be clear and precise, to avoid misunderstandings
- It is vital that the wording of the new law assures everyone it will apply to just a tiny minority of lawbreakers and terrorists
- Hong Kong has squandered its chance to implement Article 23 itself and tried Beijing’s patience with calls for independence and self-determination
The NPC – of which I am a Hong Kong delegate – passed a motion authorising its Standing Committee to draft and adopt legislation against separatism, subversion of state power, terrorist activities and activities by overseas forces that interfere in Hong Kong affairs.
The decision requires the Hong Kong government to strengthen its enforcement capabilities in this area and make periodic reports on such work. It also authorises relevant central government organs to establish a presence in Hong Kong.
This decision has sparked concerns within the community. Some critics see it as a blow to Hong Kong’s autonomy as it bypasses the local legislative process. Some are worried that national security laws will infringe freedom of expression, a free press and other rights. Parts of the international business sector are concerned about what the targeting of foreign interference might mean for them.
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The news also made the headlines worldwide and brought a negative reaction from some other countries. In particular, the United States announced that the decision represented a loss of Hong Kong’s autonomy and could end separate trade treatment under the United States-Hong Kong Policy Act.