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. Until the verdicts were handed down in the case involving 47 democrats in May 2024, security law cases had a 100 per cent conviction rate.
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Security law: COMMENTARY & ANALYSIS
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MONTH BY MONTH Explainers
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