Hong Kong Enacts Article 23 National Security Law, Expanding Government Powers

The new law introduces severe penalties and broad definitions of national security, raising concerns over human rights and freedom of speech.

Hong Kong's Article 23 law, aimed at safeguarding national security, has been enacted, introducing new offences and expanding government enforcement powers.
The law's broad definitions of 'national security' and 'state secrets' mirror those of mainland China, potentially covering a wide range of activities.
Concerns have been raised about the impact on human rights, with the law making it easier to target dissent and interaction with foreigners.
The legislation empowers the Chief Executive to create new laws unilaterally in the name of national security and grants police extensive powers to detain individuals.
Critics argue that the law undermines Hong Kong's autonomy and freedoms, with potential penalties for sedition and external interference significantly increased.