Dear friends,
White paper on "Hong Kong: Democratic Progress Under the Framework of One Country, Two Systems"
The State Council Information Office published on December 20 the white paper on "Hong Kong: Democratic Progress under the Framework of One Country, Two Systems". I would like to share with you the salient points therein.
The white paper is of profound importance and, taking the opportunity of the successful running of the first Legislative Council election following the improved electoral system, clearly shows that the Central Government is committed to developing democracy in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR). It underscores that the Central Government has been supporting democratic development in the HKSAR in accordance with the relevant provisions of the Basic Law since Hong Kong's return to the Motherland in 1997. It also outlines the three attempts made by the HKSAR Government, with full support of the Central Government, to promote the development of democracy in the HKSAR. Regrettably, two of these attempts were vetoed by some self-proclaimed "democrats" in the Legislative Council and could not be taken forward.
The publication of the white paper has provided strong justifications for the work done by the Central Government and HKSAR Government to improve the city’s electoral system in order to implement the principle of "patriots administering Hong Kong". As mentioned in the white paper, there is no "one size fits all" in the development of democracy, nor a single superior model.
The HKSAR is an inalienable part of the People's Republic of China and has been integrated into the national governance system since its return to the Motherland. Democratic development of the HKSAR must conform to the constitutional order as enshrined in the Constitution and the Basic Law and adhere to the principle of "One Country, Two Systems", while taking account of the actual situation of Hong Kong. The Basic Law stipulates the key elements of the HKSAR's democratic system, its principles and the way forward, as well as the ultimate goal of "dual universal suffrage" for the Chief Executive and the Legislative Council. The new electoral system under the principle of “patriots administering Hong Kong” manifests broad representation, balanced participation, political inclusiveness and fair competition, enabling electors to vote freely and make choices. Without the Central Government’s adherence to its aspiration and mission to implement “One Country, Two Systems”, the establishment of the democratic framework and the exercise of democracy in Hong Kong could not have been possible.
We are very encouraged to note that the Central Government emphasises in the white paper that it will continue to develop and improve democracy in Hong Kong in line with the actual situation and in accordance with the Constitution, the Basic Law, and the relevant decisions of the National People's Congress and its Standing Committee; and it will work with all social groups, sectors and stakeholders towards the ultimate goal of election by universal suffrage of the Chief Executive and all members of the Legislative Council.
Sincerely,
Law Kin-wai
Director-General
Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office
Useful links:
- CE welcomes publication of white paper on "Hong Kong: Democratic Progress Under the Framework of One Country, Two Systems"
- CS welcomes and supports white paper on "Hong Kong: Democratic Progress Under the Framework of One Country, Two Systems"
- Whitepaper on “Hong Kong: Democratic Progress Under the Framework of One Country, Two Systems”
- Thematic website on improve electoral system