In June 2020, Beijing inserted national security legislation directly into Hong Kong’s mini-constitution – bypassing the local legislature – following a year of pro-democracy protests and unrest. It criminalised subversion, secession, collusion with foreign forces and terrorist acts, which were broadly defined to include disruption to transport and other infrastructure. The move gave police sweeping new powers, alarming democrats, civil society groups and trade partners, as such laws have been used broadly to silence and punish dissidents in China. However, the authorities say it has restored stability and peace to the city.
Those facing a national security charge face handpicked judges, up to life in prison, and are rarely granted bail. As of mid-2023, security law cases have seen a 100 per cent conviction rate.
LATEST NEWS & VIEWS
Hong Kong lawmakers complete initial review of proposed security law
Article 23: Hong Kong may tighten measures against ‘absconders’ after lawmakers say draft bill ‘too lenient’
Security Law News & Views
Hong Kong will ‘shine even brighter’ – Beijing slams Washington Post editorial on authorities’ crackdown on city
Limits may be placed on suspects discharged by police under new security law, Hong Kong official says
Limiting nat’l security detainees’ access to lawyers would depend on police investigations, Hong Kong official says
National security explainers
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Security law: COMMENTARY & ANALYSIS
Hong Kong’s homegrown security law: Once seen as a ‘toothless tiger,’ it’s back with sharper claws
Hong Kong’s homegrown security law: Safeguarding the city’s future
Hong Kong’s chief auditor should stick to accounting and steer clear of security
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MONTH BY MONTH Explainers
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Security Law FEATURES
‘I go almost every day’: The elderly Hong Kong democracy advocates following 2019 protest court cases
A taste of home: How Hongkongers overseas preserve and adapt the city’s famed cuisine
Article 23 then and now: What changed between 2002 and 2024, as Hong Kong’s local security law is resurrected
‘A national security city’: Hongkongers question need for domestic security law, saying ‘more pressing matters’ at hand
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