Hong Kong’s new national security law Article 23 has not only upset many citizens but also has Taiwanese worried about the reach and magnitude of its restrictions.
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The passing of Hong Kong’s National Security Law in 2020 sparked anger among the public as they took to the streets to protest. Four years later in March of this year, the Hong Kong Legislative Council is passing the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance, or Article 23, which further restricts Hong Kong people’s freedoms. Some are worried that it may also have an impact on Taiwan.
Transportation Minister Wang Kwo-tsai (王國材) advised against visiting Hong Kong, saying that the public must be careful to avoid the restrictions.
Article 23, which will become active on March 23, is focused on national security but includes catch-all conditions and preparation for any “unforeseen circumstances” that give Hong Kong’s legislators and police more power to punish existing and new offenses. Suspects can now be prevented from meeting lawyers, and those granted bail may have their movement and communication restricted. The new law also applies to actions that take place outside of Hong Kong by overseas democracy activists and “anti-China elements”.
In a press conference held by the DPP in Taiwan, several Hong Kong people spoke out against Article 23, calling for immediate removal.
Hong Kong political cartoonist known as “vawongsir” says his university would not renew his contract suddenly in 2020 after complaints reported that his illustrations discredit the government and police.
Hong Kong native history folk scholar Eric Tsui (徐承恩) says he faces a decade in prison should he return to his hometown, for publishing his books in Taiwan.
In addition to citizen outrage, the Index on Censorship, Amnesty International, the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China (IPAC), and the U.S. Congressional-Executive Commission on China have all made statements against the new law. However, Hong Kong officials insist that Article 23 balances security with safeguarding the rights and freedoms of residents.
Unfortunately in the opinion of the international community, Hong Kong’s people seem to be getting further and further away from freedom of speech.