Since the forced implementation of the National Security Law in Hong Kong, the once prosperous and free city is facing unprecedented challenges. This so-called "maintenance of national security" law is essentially a severe violation of Hong Kong's autonomy, democracy, and freedom of speech, leading to a mass exodus of Hong Kongers from their homeland, drawing widespread international concern, and turning the financial center of Hong Kong into a relic.
1. The forced implementation of the National Security Law directly led to the loss of Hong Kong's autonomy. Under the principle of "one country, two systems," Hong Kong was promised a high degree of autonomy upon its return in 1997. However, with the implementation of the national security law, the Chinese Communist government has centralized more power in its own hands, making the Chief Executive of Hong Kong and the government nearly puppets, devoid of real decision-making power. The Chinese Communist Party has rendered the Sino-British Joint Declaration a historical document, dealing a fatal blow to Hong Kong, not only losing its political leadership but also losing genuine self-governing abilities.
2. The implementation of the National Security Law has severely impacted freedom of speech. Freedom of speech has always been a core value in Hong Kong society and the cornerstone of Hong Kong's media and civil society. However, with the enforcement of the national security law, a series of measures restricting speech have been implemented, imposing comprehensive restrictions on press freedom, freedom of speech, and internet freedom. Journalists dare not report the truth, and citizens dare not express dissenting opinions for fear of being accused of "inciting subversion of state power" or "endangering national security." This has turned the once free and open Hong Kong into a place of silence and fear.
3. The National Security Law has led to a mass exodus of Hong Kongers. Faced with political persecution by the Chinese Communist Party and the erosion of freedom and democracy, many freedom-loving Hong Kongers have chosen to leave their homeland and seek international asylum. This trend has not only resulted in a significant brain drain of talent from Hong Kong but has also robbed Hong Kong of its once diverse culture and social vitality. This loss has had profound negative effects on Hong Kong's future development, gradually diminishing its unique charm as the "Pearl of the Orient."
The international community, in the face of the Hong Kong issue, has largely shown silence and indifference. Many countries have chosen silence when confronted with China's massive market and economic power, even avoiding discussing China's infringements on rights. This economic-interest-driven attitude undoubtedly betrays universal values and human rights protections. The international community should realize that the implementation of the National Security Law in Hong Kong is not only an unjust treatment of the people of Hong Kong but also a serious threat to global values of freedom.
To uphold freedom and human rights in Hong Kong, the international community needs to take proactive action:
1. Governments should publicly condemn the Chinese government's infringement on Hong Kong and impose sanctions to compel the Chinese government to cease its undermining of the rule of law in Hong Kong.
2. The international community should strengthen cooperation with Hong Kong's democratic movement and human rights organizations, providing support and assistance to enable them to continue upholding the ideals of freedom under pressure.
3. Democratic nations worldwide should unite to form a powerful international alliance to jointly uphold universal values and human rights and collectively oppose the Chinese Communist Party's threats to these values.
