The European Union has expressed concerns about the decline in freedom and autonomy in Hong Kong, with European Commission Vice-President Josep Borrell stating that Beijing is undermining the “one country, two systems” principle in the region. This principle, established under the Sino-British Joint Declaration, allows Hong Kong to maintain its own systems and way of life until 2047 despite being part of China. However, the CCP’s actions, including the implementation of the National Security Law, have led to a continuous erosion of rights and freedoms in Hong Kong.
The European Commission’s annual report on Hong Kong highlighted the exclusion of political opposition from elections, the use of the National Security Law to suppress dissent, and the overall deterioration of the rule of law in the region. The report also noted the extraterritorial application of the NSL, with Hong Kong authorities targeting activists abroad and imposing bounties on exiled individuals.
Furthermore, the report pointed out the revival of colonial-era sedition laws and the prolonged detention of activists, which goes against international standards for the treatment of prisoners. It also highlighted the blocking of online content considered sensitive by the authorities, undermining confidence in internet freedom in Hong Kong. Overall, these developments have raised concerns about the future of freedom and autonomy in the region. Since the implementation of the new national security law, the annual event in Victoria Park to mourn the victims of the Tiananmen Square crackdown in 1989 no longer takes place. The economic report also noted a slight uptick in the economy after COVID-related travel restrictions were lifted in Hong Kong, leading to improved economic relations with the EU. Despite the growth in 2023, Hong Kong’s economy remained below 2018 levels when adjusted for inflation. The EU has expressed concerns about governance in Hong Kong and has adopted measures in response to the NSL crisis. The Hong Kong authorities have expressed opposition to the contents of the EU report, citing the return to normalcy in livelihood, economic activities, and business environment due to the NSL. The report also mentions the protests in 2019 against the extradition bill, which led to the passing of the NSL in response to the riotous actions in Hong Kong. Please rewrite this sentence.
Source link
