Defining the Legislative Council in the Hong Kong SAR: A Quick Explanation.
The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region's LegCo operates as a law-making body with the power to create and amend laws for the city. However, polls for this assembly have witnessed a significant decline in genuine political alternatives amid major systemic overhauls in recent years.
Subsequent to the transfer of sovereignty in 1997, a framework of "one country, two systems" was established, pledging that Hong Kong would keep a degree of independence. Over time, analysts argue that democratic rights have been steadily diminished.
Major Developments and Shifts
During 2014, a bill was introduced that was designed to allow residents to vote for the Chief Executive. Notably, the selection was confined to contenders pre-approved by Beijing.
The year 2019 experienced months of protests, culminating in an episode where demonstrators breached the government building to express anger against a controversial legal amendment.
The Impact of the National Security Law
Enacted in June 2020, the National Security Law handed unprecedented powers to Beijing over Hong Kong's internal matters. Activities such as collusion were made illegal. After this law, all significant opposition organization ceased operations.
Today's Election System
LegCo elections are considered Hong Kong's main electoral exercise. But, rules introduced in the past few years now ensure that only candidates deemed loyal are eligible to contest seats.
- Seat Composition: Now, only 20 out of 90 seats are filled by public ballot.
- The Majority: The balance are chosen by a government-aligned body.
- Code of Conduct: Additionally drafted rules would mandate legislators to publicly support Beijing's jurisdiction.
Voter Behavior
Amid most forms of protest now curtailed, voter abstention has become one of the limited peaceful ways for residents to register discontent. Consequently unprecedentedly low voter turnout in the latest LegCo elections.