Hong Kong lawmakers unanimously approve security law giving government more power to curb dissent
Hong Kong lawmakers pass controversial national security law as critics voice concerns over impact on civil liberties and international standing.
- Bilawal Riaz
- 1 min read
Hong Kong lawmakers have unanimously passed a new national security law, expanding authorities’ power to prosecute citizens for various offenses aiming to safeguard national security. The law, rushed through by Beijing loyalists in the Legislative Council, is seen as a significant crackdown on dissent following the 2019 pro-democracy protests. Critics fear it will further diminish civil liberties promised by Beijing after the city’s return to Chinese rule in 1997. Businesspeople, journalists, and international bodies have expressed concern over the potential impact of the law on Hong Kong’s freedoms and international standing. The United States and other countries are closely monitoring the situation, with some urging sanctions against Hong Kong officials over the legislation.