Defining the Legislative Council in Hong Kong: A Quick Explanation.
The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region's Legislative Council functions as a law-making body with the mandate to pass and change statutes for the city. Yet, polls for this body have witnessed a sharp reduction in genuine political alternatives during a period of significant systemic transformations in the past few years.
After the transfer of sovereignty in 1997, a framework of "one nation, two systems" was established, pledging that Hong Kong would keep a measure of autonomy. Over time, critics contend that democratic rights have been systematically curtailed.
Key Milestones and Shifts
In 2014, a bill was put forward that was designed to allow residents to elect the Chief Executive. Critically, any such election was restricted to nominees vetted by the mainland government.
During 2019 saw extensive protests, which featured an event where residents accessed the government building to voice opposition against a proposed law.
The Impact of the National Security Law
Enacted in mid-2020, the security legislation provided new legal tools to the mainland over Hong Kong's governance. Acts such as secession were outlawed. In the wake of this law, every major political group dissolved.
The Current Electoral System
Elections for the legislature are viewed as Hong Kong's key electoral process. Nevertheless, regulations established in 2021 now stipulate that only hopefuls deemed pro-establishment are eligible to stand for election.
- Distribution of Seats: Now, only 20 out of 90 seats are filled by public ballot.
- Remaining Seats: The rest are selected by a pro-establishment committee.
- Code of Conduct: Additionally suggested rules would mandate legislators to publicly support the mainland's oversight.
Voter Behavior
With other avenues for dissent now restricted, not voting has been seen as one of the remaining safe ways for residents to express dissent. Consequently unprecedentedly low electoral engagement in recent LegCo contests.
