China's Hong Kong SECOND EDITION: The Politics of a Global City

Under the "one country, two systems" framework, Hong Kong became a special administrative region of China in 1997. Tim Summers' analysis of Hong Kong's politics discusses the ramifications of the 2019-20 mass demonstrations and the city's intensifying confrontational politics, leading to China's new national security law. Hong Kong has lost its position as a hub of economic globalization and is now at the forefront of US-China strategic rivalry. Summers explores how global tensions, local politics, and Beijing's relationship will shape Hong Kong's future.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 19 November 2020
Publisher: Agenda Publishing

In 1997, Hong Kong underwent a significant transformation when it became a special administrative region (SAR) of China, operating under the principle of "one country, two systems." This arrangement aimed to preserve Hong Kong's unique political and economic systems for a specified period. However, the landscape of Hong Kong's politics has undergone a remarkable shift in recent years, driven by a series of events that have placed the city at the forefront of global geopolitical tensions.

One of the most significant events that has shaped Hong Kong's political landscape is the mass demonstrations of 2019-20. These demonstrations, sparked by concerns over Beijing's encroachment on the city's autonomy, drew millions of people onto the streets and highlighted the deep divisions within Hong Kong society. The protests were met with a harsh response from the Chinese government, which deployed a massive security crackdown and introduced a new national security law for Hong Kong.

The national security law has been widely criticized by international organizations and human rights groups, who argue that it undermines Hong Kong's autonomy and freedoms. The law criminalizes acts of secession, subversion, terrorism, and collusion with foreign forces, and has led to a wave of arrests and prosecutions. The law has also sparked widespread protests and international condemnation, with many countries suspending extradition treaties with Hong Kong and imposing sanctions on Chinese officials.

In addition to the mass demonstrations, Hong Kong's political landscape has been further shaped by the city's intensifying confrontational politics. The government of Hong Kong has been accused of corruption, authoritarianism, and disregard for human rights, leading to growing opposition and resentment among the local population. This opposition has been fueled by the growing influence of pro-democracy activists and the rise of a more assertive local political culture.

The interaction of these global tensions with Hong Kong's polarized local politics and its relationship with Beijing has significant implications for the city's future. While Hong Kong has long been a hub for international trade and finance, the national security law has raised concerns about the city's ability to maintain its role as a global economic center. The law has also created a sense of uncertainty and instability, which has deterred investment and business activity.

At the same time, the mass demonstrations and confrontational politics have highlighted the deep divisions within Hong Kong society. The pro-democracy movement has been met with fierce resistance from the Chinese government, which has deployed a range of tactics to suppress dissent and maintain control. This has led to a growing sense of isolation and frustration among pro-democracy activists, who face constant surveillance and repression.

In conclusion, Hong Kong's political landscape has undergone a profound transformation in recent years, driven by a series of events that have placed the city at the forefront of global geopolitical tensions. The mass demonstrations of 2019-20 and the introduction of the national security law have highlighted the deep divisions within Hong Kong society and the challenges faced by the city in maintaining its autonomy and freedoms. The interaction of these global tensions with Hong Kong's polarized local politics and its relationship with Beijing has significant implications for the city's future, and it will be important to closely monitor the developments in the coming years.

Weight: 332g
Dimension: 156 x 233 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781788213332