What is LegCo in the Hong Kong SAR: A 30-Second Overview.
Hong Kong's LegCo operates as a regional legislature with the mandate to pass and change statutes for the territory. However, polls for this assembly have witnessed a significant decline in meaningful opposition during a period of major governance overhauls in recent years.
After the 1997 handover, a framework of "one nation, two systems" was promised, pledging that Hong Kong would maintain a level of self-governance. Over time, critics contend that democratic rights have been systematically curtailed.
Key Milestones and Shifts
During 2014, a proposal was tabled that aimed to allow residents to elect the head of government. Notably, the selection was confined to contenders pre-approved by central authorities.
During 2019 was marked by widespread demonstrations, including an incident where demonstrators accessed the legislative complex to demonstrate against a proposed law.
The Effect of the NSL
Enacted in mid-2020, the National Security Law provided unprecedented powers to central authorities over Hong Kong's affairs. Activities such as collusion were outlawed. After this law, all significant political group dissolved.
Today's Electoral System
The council polls are considered Hong Kong's primary political event. However, rules enacted in 2021 now stipulate that only candidates deemed pro-establishment are able to contest seats.
- Distribution of Seats: Currently, only 20 out of 90 seats are filled by public ballot.
- The Majority: The rest are appointed by a government-aligned body.
- Proposed Standards: Recent proposed requirements would require legislators to "sincerely support" the mainland's oversight.
Electoral Turnout
Given other means of expression now curtailed, not voting has become one of the limited peaceful ways for residents to register discontent. This has led to historically low participation rates in recent LegCo elections.
