Hong Kong has initiated the process to implement its own national security legislation, known as Article 23, which would address crimes such as treason, espionage, and foreign interference.
This follows the imposition of China's sweeping national security law in 2020, which aimed to quell pro-democracy demonstrations.
Although public opposition similar to that seen in 2003, when half a million protested the original proposal, is not expected, the city has already experienced significant changes due to Beijing’s crackdown, which has led to the silencing of dissent and the closure of many civil society groups and media outlets.
Chief Executive John Lee stressed the urgency of enacting the additional local security laws, citing a "constitutional duty" and rising geopolitical tensions, particularly from what he claims are threats from Western intelligence agencies like the CIA.
The law would introduce new offences related to state secrets and espionage, and expand the scope of spying to include modern activities, such as using misinformation to intervene in Hong Kong's affairs.
It would also penalize external interference and the destruction of public infrastructure, including misusing computers and electronic systems to compromise national security.
The consultation period for the public to provide feedback on the proposed legislation began on February and is set to be much shorter compared to the three-month timeframe offered over two decades ago.
As the law could add to the uncertainties for Hong Kong, which is trying to preserve its role as Asia’s leading financial center amidst strict
COVID policies and increasing security measures, authorities have attempted to reassure business leaders that the city will retain its distinctive edge as a link between the East and West, despite signs of an intensifying security crackdown by Beijing on the mainland.