Nation

Hong Kong's New Code of Conduct: A Major Shift Towards Beijing's Control

2025-07-04

Author: Chun

Legislators Must 'Sincerely Support' Beijing

In a significant move, Hong Kong has unveiled a controversial new code of conduct that mandates lawmakers to 2sincerely support2 the jurisdiction of Beijing, effectively tightening the grip of the central government on the city and its administration.

Stiff Penalties for Breaching the Code

Introduced on Wednesday, this proposal outlines a range of penalties for legislators who violate these new rules, including the possibility of suspension without pay for serious offenses. The code emphasizes loyalty to the central government while also stating that legislators must maintain the region's high degree of autonomy.

Patriots Administering Hong Kong: What Does It Mean?

The phrase 2patriots administering Hong Kong2 encapsulates the recent election reforms aimed at ensuring that only pro-Beijing candidates are eligible for office. This approach underscores the government’s intention to eliminate dissenting voices from the political landscape.

Navigating 'Red Lines'

Andrew Leung, President of the Legislative Council, reassured the public that while these new rules may seem restrictive, legislators are still allowed to express their views—albeit with caution to avoid crossing the so-called 2red line.2

A Landscape Transforming Post-Protests

Following the harsh crackdowns on the pro-democracy movement, Hong Kong's governance has undergone drastic changes. Major democratic parties have either disbanded or are in the process of dissolving, and thousands—including politicians and activists—have faced prosecution under stringent national security laws.

New Prison Regulations Raise Concerns

In a separate but equally troubling development, new prison regulations have been proposed, which require visits to inmates to be pre-approved by the correctional services department. These regulations could limit visits from clergy and specific legal representatives, further straining detainees' rights.

Criticism from Human Rights Advocates

The crackdown on Hong Kong's pro-democracy advocates has drawn widespread condemnation from human rights organizations. Many legal experts, including senior foreign judges, have resigned from the city’s appeal court, citing a deteriorating judicial environment and concerns over the imposition of the National Security Law.

Resignations of Foreign Judges: A Silent Exodus

Brenda Marjorie Hale, a distinguished UK legal figure, revealed in a recent interview that her decision to decline an extension on the Hong Kong court was justified by the unfolding events. She expressed dismay over how the National Security Law seems to overshadow the Basic Law, Hong Kong's constitution.

2Even though foreign judges may not be involved in national security cases, they inadvertently lend legitimacy to a system that is increasingly oppressive,2 she lamented.

The Future of Hong Kong: An Ongoing Struggle

As Hong Kong grapples with its identity amid mounting pressures from Beijing, this new code of conduct is just another layer in a complex struggle for democracy and autonomy in the city. The implications of these regulations will likely have far-reaching consequences on Hong Kong’s political landscape and civil liberties.