New Chinese law aims to destroy Hong Kong and its passionate democracy

As China moves to tighten its relentless grip on Hong Kong, thousands of protestors are taking to the streets again.

A shiver went through lovers of freedom of expression and autonomy when the news broke about China’s latest attempt to force its authority on the former British trading settlement of Hong Kong. The massively controversial and all-embracing new security law may well signal the end for the islands’ impressive history of independence and the use of protest to make their feelings known to the giant Communist state next door.

Experts believe China’s move and its timing is fully intended as a death blow to the fiercely independent but extremely wealthy little state famous for its ability to keep fighting when all seems lost. There’s no place for democratic movements once the law comes fully into effect, with both the expat and local communities now struggling to decide what to do next. The law bans subversion, sedition, secession and treason – thus sending a chilling message to those critical of Beijing’s policies as well as to those planning mass movements once the worldwide coronavirus panic dies down.

Over the past few years, China has killed off religious organisations, grassroots movements and Hong Kong’s determined civil rights activists, but the new law will take down its people’s liberties and civil as well as human rights. As regards the island’s huge reputation as Asia’s financial hub as well as a hub for expat professionals from all over the world, the new law is likely to force the end of Hong Kong as the world knows it.

Once the hated changes become law, mainland Chinese activists who’ve found a relatively safe haven in Hong Kong will be in danger as never before. Expats and investors who call Hong Kong their home will also be in danger from the vast Communist country’s so-called diplomatic purposes. Many journalists have already been denied work visas due to their tell-it-like-it-is coverage of the recent year-long protests, with several also detained for periods of up to 15 months.

Already, Hong Kongers are on the streets facing police armed with tear gas, and international expat professionals are calculating the effect of the law on trade treaties and the economic environment. Many are also urging the world to stand with them as they grimly attempt to preserve even a shred of democracy on this historic rock.