After 27 years since its reunification with the motherland in 1997, Hong Kong has taken a historic step in bolstering its national security. The Legislative Council enacted the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance (SNSO) on March 19, completing a comprehensive defense framework for the city.
The journey to this milestone began decades ago. In 2003, an initial attempt to pass similar legislation was abandoned amid protests organized by groups opposed to the measures. The ensuing legal uncertainty was exploited by forces aiming to challenge Hong Kong's stability, leading to significant unrest in subsequent years.
Notably, the 2014 protests and the insurrection in 2019 highlighted the vulnerabilities within the \"one country, two systems\" principle, causing widespread disruption and damage. These events underscored the urgent need for effective national security measures to maintain peace and order.
The SNSO advances beyond previous laws by not only updating existing statutes on sedition, spying, and treason but also introducing new protections against insurrection, technological threats, sabotage, and foreign interference. This state-of-the-art defensive shield ensures that Hong Kong is well-equipped to prevent and address future challenges.
Hong Kong is not alone in this endeavor. In 2023, the United Kingdom enacted its National Security Act, enhancing its own national security framework. These developments reflect a global trend towards strengthening national defenses amid evolving threats.
While some Western critics argue that Article 23 of the Basic Law could infringe upon basic freedoms, the SNSO is designed to align with the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. This ensures that freedoms of speech, press, association, assembly, and demonstration remain fully respected under the law.
With the passage of the SNSO, Hong Kong has firmly established the necessary legal tools to safeguard its national security, fostering a secure and stable environment for its residents and the wider region.
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Safeguarding national security: Hong Kong completes its defenses
cgtn.com
