What is the Legislative Council in the Hong Kong SAR: A 30-Second Guide.
The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region's Legislative Council operates as a law-making body with the authority to enact and revise legislation for the region. Nonetheless, polls for this body have witnessed a significant decline in meaningful opposition against a backdrop of sweeping systemic changes in the past few years.
After the transfer of sovereignty in 1997, a principle of a dual-system arrangement was put in place, guaranteeing that Hong Kong would keep a level of independence. Over time, analysts argue that democratic rights have been systematically curtailed.
Significant Milestones and Reforms
During 2014, a proposal was introduced that aimed to allow residents to elect the Chief Executive. Critically, this process was confined to contenders sanctioned by the mainland government.
During 2019 was marked by extensive demonstrations, including an event where residents breached the government building to express anger against a controversial extradition bill.
The Consequence of the National Security Law
Passed in mid-2020, the security legislation handed extensive authority to the mainland over Hong Kong's affairs. Conduct such as subversion were made illegal. Following this law, every major democratic party disbanded.
The Current Election Process
LegCo elections are regarded as Hong Kong's primary electoral event. Nevertheless, laws enacted in 2021 now guarantee that only hopefuls deemed "patriots" are permitted to contest seats.
- Membership Structure: Currently, only 20 out of 90 seats are chosen by popular vote.
- Remaining Seats: The rest are selected by a government-aligned body.
- Code of Conduct: Newly proposed requirements would require legislators to publicly support Beijing's jurisdiction.
Electoral Turnout
Given many forms of protest now restricted, not voting has been seen as one of the few legal ways for residents to register discontent. This has led to record low voter turnout in the latest LegCo polls.
