Two Systems, Two Countries: A Nationalist Guide to Hong Kong

As Hong Kong becomes more integrated with China, fewer people identify as Chinese, leading to the rise of Hong Kong nationalism. "Two Systems, Two Countries" explores the origins of Hong Kong nationalism and its different schools of thought, including city-state theory, self-determination, independence, and returnism. It argues that Hong Kong independence is not just a provocation but a response to the failure of One Country, Two Systems and the need to transcend obsolete orthodoxies. The book concludes with an examination of Hong Kong nationalists' influence on the 2019 protest movement.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 234 pages
Publication date: 10 May 2022
Publisher: University of California Press

As Hong Kong becomes increasingly integrated into the People's Republic of China, the number of people in the city who identify as Chinese has dwindled. This phenomenon is explored in depth in the book "Two Systems, Two Countries," which delves into the origins of Hong Kong nationalism and examines the various schools of thought that have shaped its development.

One of the key themes of the book is the idea of Hong Kong independence. While some may view this as a mere provocation testing Beijing's red lines, author Kevin Carrico argues that it represents a collective awakening to the failure of One Country, Two Systems and the need to transcend obsolete orthodoxies.

The book traces the origins of Hong Kong nationalism back to the late 19th century, when the British Empire colonized the territory and imposed a system of colonial rule that lasted for over a century. During this time, Hong Kong developed a unique culture and identity that was distinct from that of mainland China. However, with the onset of the Chinese Communist Revolution in 1949, Hong Kong was subjected to a series of political and economic changes that threatened its autonomy and identity.

One of the key figures in the development of Hong Kong nationalism was the late Deng Xiaoping, who oversaw the return of Hong Kong to Chinese sovereignty in 1997. Under the "One Country, Two Systems" framework, Hong Kong was promised a high degree of autonomy and freedoms for 50 years, including the right to elect its own government and maintain its own legal system. However, as the years have passed, many in Hong Kong have become increasingly dissatisfied with the implementation of this framework, arguing that it has failed to protect their rights and freedoms.

The book introduces readers to the main schools of thought that have shaped Hong Kong nationalism, including city-state theory, self-determination, independence, and returnism. City-state theory argues that Hong Kong is a unique city-state that should be allowed to maintain its own independent political and economic system, while self-determination advocates for the right of Hong Kong to determine its own future. Independence advocates for the full separation of Hong Kong from China, while returnism advocates for the restoration of the British colonial system.

Author Kevin Carrico argues that the idea of Hong Kong independence is more than just a provocation testing Beijing's red lines. It represents a collective awakening to the failure of One Country, Two Systems and the need to transcend obsolete orthodoxies. He suggests that Hong Kong nationalists should embrace a more inclusive and forward-looking vision for the future, one that recognizes the importance of economic development, social justice, and human rights.

The book also examines the influence of Hong Kong nationalism on the 2019 protest movement, which erupted in response to proposed changes to the city's electoral system that would have allowed Beijing to exert greater control over the selection of Hong Kong's leaders. Carrico argues that the protest movement was a powerful expression of Hong Kong's desire for greater autonomy and freedoms, and that it highlighted the need for a more democratic and inclusive political system in the city.

In conclusion, "Two Systems, Two Countries" is an engaging and accessible introduction to the tumultuous shifts in Hong Kong politics and identity over the past decade. It provides a comprehensive exploration of the origins of Hong Kong nationalism and the various schools of thought that have shaped its development. By examining the idea of Hong Kong independence and the influence of the 2019 protest movement, the book offers a valuable perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing Hong Kong as it continues to navigate its relationship with the People's Republic of China.

Weight: 334g
Dimension: 152 x 229 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780520386754