ExplainerHow Beijing is leading an overhaul of Hong Kong’s election systems
- In past attempts to reform election processes, city’s leader acted first by approaching Beijing
- Critics say proposals of drastic change go against promise of universal suffrage in Basic Law
A “democratic electoral system with Hong Kong characteristics” is what Beijing is aiming for in its proposed overhaul of the city’s electoral systems, and the central government hopes the imminent changes will stop opposition activists from using their public office to call for foreign interference.
Beijing officials argued the changes – which include increasing the number of lawmakers chosen by a select group – are necessary to tackle national security threats. But critics warned that changing the rules of the political game so drastically went against Beijing’s promises, enshrined in the Basic Law, which stipulate universal suffrage as the ultimate aim of the city’s constitutional development.
Here is a summary of how Hong Kong’s electoral systems have evolved since Britain returned the city to China in 1997, and what the proposed changes might mean.
Are there “standard procedures” for reforming Hong Kong’s electoral systems?
In 2004 Beijing set out a “five-step procedure” for making changes to the way the city’s leaders and lawmakers are selected.