Instilling patriotism in the young needs more than rituals and indoctrination

For the first time, local schools have been told to observe the “National Constitution Day” in early December, a recent annual event to enhance understanding of the Chinese constitution on the mainland and in Hong Kong. Separately, the city radios are to broadcast the national anthem in the morning every day later this month, a requirement under an ordinance passed early this year to outlaw insults of the song. These are to be expected amid growing emphasis on one country under two systems. But to instil patriotism and national identify among the younger generation, it will take more than rituals and indoctrination.

There are those who quickly dismiss the initiatives as brainwashing. Other see it as just part of the national education that has been long overdue. Under the “suggested activities” in the circular issued by the Education Bureau last week, schools are told to explain the constitution in morning assemblies and ask teachers and students to observe the etiquette for the national anthem and flag raising to “demonstrate their good quality as nationals”. There also will be online quiz competitions on the constitution and activities to deepen students understanding of recent national developments, such as the commissioning of the cross-border high speed rail two years ago and the Greater Bay Area initiatives.

The push on the constitution has raised concerns whether the importance of the Basic Law has been deliberately played down. Such views have overlooked the relationship between the two. The continuation of the city’s capitalistic system and way of life are underpinned not just by the Basic Law, but also Article 31 of the constitution, under which the establishment of the special administrative region is provided for.

Promoting the constitution will not just enhance respect for sovereignty and patriotism. A better understanding of the relations between the constitution and the Basic Law also helps illustrate the fundamental differences and will be conducive to the accurate and comprehensive implementation of “one country, two systems”.

For decades, the emphasis has been on Hong Kong being a distinct part of China with a separate system. Recently, there has been a stronger focus on one country. This is not necessarily wrong. Even before the reunification, Hongkongers were sharing the pride and pain of the nation. They rejoiced at its athletic excellence and scientific achievements, and were distressed by natural and man-made disasters. The affinity and love for the country are beyond doubt. Apart from looping the national anthem in the media or hammering the message in schools, there needs to be more constructive way to better promote the understanding of the country and the right balance of one country, two systems.