Hong Kong, a former British Colony in Southeastern China, boasts a population of over 7 million. Recognized by the Economic Freedom of World Index as the global leader in economic freedom with a score of 90.2, the region has thrived in relative tranquility.

Nonetheless, recent times have seen a surge in protests, unsettling the small yet stable nation known for its development.

A pivotal moment occurred on July 1st, termed ‘black Monday,’ when a protest that typically marks the annual pro-democracy march transformed into a significant catalyst. Originating in June 2019, the demonstration commemorated Hong Kong’s transition from British to Chinese rule in 1997.

However, this event took an unforeseen turn as hundreds of protestors stormed the Legislative Council (Legco) building, shattering its glass facade.

Within the densely populated streets reminiscent of Tiananmen, anti-government activists rallied around various grievances, primarily demanding the resignation of Hong Kong’s leader, Carrie Lam.

James To, a seasoned Democratic Party lawmaker, addressed the gathered crowds outside the city’s parliament and government headquarters, emphasizing, “She must retract the bill and step down,” as reported by Channel News Asia.

Joshua Wong, a prominent pro-democracy activist interviewed by BBC, pointed to the lack of democratic elections for legislators in Hong Kong as the root cause behind the destructive scenes at Legco. This systemic flaw has fueled political resentment among the populace, who feel their core freedoms remain inadequately represented.

Additionally, tensions escalated with the recent announcement of a proposed extradition bill by the parliament.

The bill, permitting extraditions from Hong Kong to China, triggered strong opposition from the locals. Their collective voice, chanting “no China extradition, no evil law,” resonated as they feared being unjustly subjected to the legal jurisdiction of mainland China.

Reasons for the Hing Kong protests.

The ongoing protests center on the annulment of a controversial bill. Interestingly, despite public demand, Lam has chosen to adjust the bill’s amendments rather than withdraw it, asserting its significance in addressing a longstanding “loophole.” Hong Kong’s distinct autonomy and its array of freedoms, particularly its separate legal system, have been widely regarded as pivotal assets by business leaders and diplomats.

Among the protesters is Garry Chiu, a school teacher accompanied by his wife and one-year-old daughter.

He articulates the urgency, stating, “I must safeguard my daughter. The enactment of this law could lead to anyone vanishing from Hong Kong, devoid of justice in China’s rights-barren system.” Kelvin Tam, a 21-year-old student residing in London, shares similar sentiments, emphasizing that the extradition bill imperils the very core values of Hong Kong and its rule of law. As conveyed by CNA, Tam believes the bill’s passage would erode the protective barrier of Hong Kong’s judicial independence.

As per Reuters, concerns have arisen among Hong Kong judges regarding the impartiality of Chinese courts in handling extradition cases.

The proposed amendments, according to the Hong Kong people, would streamline case-by-case arrangements, permitting the extradition of suspects to jurisdictions like mainland China, Macau, and Taiwan. This move extends beyond the 20 territories with which Hong Kong currently maintains extradition treaties.

Foreign response to the Hong Kong protests

Globally, foreign governments have voiced apprehensions, underlining the potential repercussions for Hong Kong’s standing as an international financial center.

They caution that individuals sought by China could become ensnared in Hong Kong. This protest serves as evidence of the limitations of the “one country, two systems” framework governing the region, as noted by the South China Morning Post.

The demonstrators have broadened their objectives, now encompassing the release of detained activists.

Amnesty International and the Hong Kong Bar Association are urging investigations into alleged police brutality and unlawful tactics.

Although Commissioner of Police Stephen Lo Wai-Chung claims his officers initially withdrew before later action, it falls upon the Hong Kong police. The government to establish democratic measures for tackling deep-rooted political issues.

Protests have been effective in resolving political concerns in countries like South Korea.

Nevertheless, the situation in Hong Kong remains uncertain. As of 2023, Hong Kong’s security chief has declared that protest gatherings necessitate prior police approval.

While this might temporarily curb assembly due to security concerns, it doesn’t serve as a definitive solution to the underlying grievances.

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