Since then, there have been missteps by both the pro- democracy camp in Hong Kong and officials in Beijing, gradually leading to a point of no return. Twenty-six years later, with two national security laws in place, naivety and excessive pessimism are taking hold in Hong Kong, the mainland and beyond with the belief that the city is becoming or has already become another Chinese city under one socialist system.
All this has given rise to a distinct impression that the city is hanging on every word from Beijing and eagerly awaiting instructions on how to move forward.
Hong Kong, Beijing must quell fears over mainland control of city
Hong Kong, Beijing must quell fears over mainland control of city
For instance, since 2021, political and business leaders have turned out in force on April 15 annually to mark National Security Education Day, with films shown and seminars held across society, including in schools.
I propose that Hong Kong should choose a day each year to educate people about the common law system and its unique characteristics. “Common law education day” will help people rediscover the importance of the law, its heritage, bilingual system, judicial independence and links to China’s constitution. Activities including speeches, films, newspaper articles and seminars can be planned to discuss how to adapt to the city’s needs and challenges.
Chinese officials in charge of Hong-Kong-related affairs are required to hold sessions to study the country’s constitution and the Basic Law, which guarantees the preservation of the common law. But my research indicates comprehensive and systematic studies of the common law are not required.
Such a shift could mean they are less inclined to treat the city as a unique jurisdiction governed by the common law when they deal with matters related to Hong Kong. If this continues, that will be ominous.
An annual push to celebrate and study the common law in conjunction with the Basic Law is just what Hong Kong needs to boost people’s trust and confidence in the legal system and judiciary – the bedrock of the city’s prosperity.
Wang Xiangwei is a former editor-in-chief of the South China Morning Post. He now teaches journalism at Baptist University