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How has the political system of Hong Kong evolved following the end of British rule?

Deidra Lilbourne

The political system of Hong Kong has undergone significant changes following the end of British rule in 1997. The Basic Law, which serves as the constitutional document of Hong Kong and was adopted by the National People's Congress in 1990, outlines the framework for Hong Kong's political system as a Special Administrative Region (SAR) of the People's Republic of China.

Under the "one country, two systems" principle, Hong Kong has a separate political and legal system from mainland China, with a high degree of autonomy in all areas except foreign and defense affairs. The Chief Executive, head of the executive branch, is appointed by the central government in Beijing, but is chosen from a pool of candidates from Hong Kong.

The Legislative Council (LegCo) is the unicameral lawmaking body in Hong Kong, with 70 members, half of whom are elected through geographic constituencies and the other half elected through functional constituencies, which represent various industries and sectors. The electoral system has been a source of controversy, with critics arguing that it favors pro-Beijing politicians and stifles the voices of pro-democracy advocates.

In recent years, there have been growing tensions between the pro-democracy movement and the central government in Beijing. In 2014, the Umbrella Revolution saw widespread protests and civil disobedience in response to the government's decision to restrict democratic reform and vet candidates for the Chief Executive election.

In 2019, Hong Kong was rocked by months of protests, sparked by the introduction of an extradition bill that would have allowed the extradition of criminal suspects to mainland China. The movement grew to encompass broader demands for democratic reform and opposition to Beijing's political influence in Hong Kong.

In response, the central government in Beijing has tightened its grip on Hong Kong's political system, introducing a sweeping national security law in June 2020 that criminalizes acts of secession, subversion, and terrorism. Critics argue that the law erodes Hong Kong's autonomy and undermines the freedoms guaranteed under the Basic Law and the Sino-British Joint Declaration.

Overall, the political system of Hong Kong has evolved significantly since the end of British rule, with a complex balance of autonomy and influence from Beijing. The ongoing tensions and protests highlight the challenges of maintaining this delicate balance and the need for continued vigilance in protecting Hong Kong's freedoms and democratic institutions.