Hong Kong's Article 23 Security Bill Nears Final Approval

The bill, expanding the government's powers and targeting new offences, is set to be enacted following legislative review.

Hong Kong lawmakers have approved amendments to the Article 23 security bill, targeting offences such as treason, insurrection, and espionage.
The bill grants the Chief Executive broad powers to add new offences and measures, subject to legislative vetting.
Concerns have been raised over the bill's potential impact on freedoms, including the possession of seditious publications and public dissent.
The bill ties closely with the Beijing-imposed national security law, enhancing the central government's mandate in Hong Kong.
Legal experts express concerns over the broad and open-ended powers granted to the executive branch under the bill.