China – China has passed a controversial security law giving it new powers over Hong Kong, deepening fears for the city’s freedom.
The law is set to criminalise secession, subversion and collusion with foreign forces, but will also effectively curtail protests and freedom of speech.
This move follows increasing unrest and a widening pro-democracy movement.
Veteran activists have already said they will march on Wednesday, despite the risk of arrest under the new law.
China is yet to officially confirm if the law has been passed and no draft was made public beforehand, meaning residents are still unclear of the measures they will have to abide by.
The law could be implemented as early as Wednesday.
Hong Kong was handed back to China from British control in 1997, but under a special agreement that guaranteed certain rights for 50 years.
UK Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab has expressed “deep concern” at the reports the law had been passed, saying: “This would be a grave step”.
The law has sparked protests since it was introduced in May.
Leave a Reply