Under the law, Hong Kong authorities have broad powers to deal with “subversion, secession, collusion with foreign forces, and terrorism.” In fact, those found violating the law can even be imprisoned for life. There is little clarity on what type of content is considered a threat to national security.
Blocking and Censorship Process in Hong Kong is Intransparent
Hong Kong Watch said its website is inaccessible on networks like PCCW, HKB, China Mobile (HK), and others. Furthermore, several Hong Kong-based journalists working for Reuters could not access the Hong Kong Watch website without a VPN. Benedict Rodgers, Chief Executive of Hong Kong Watch, worries that the website is blocked under the city’s national security law. Under Article 9 of the law, the Hong Kong government has powers to increase internet regulation on grounds of national security. “If this is not just a technical malfunction, and Hong Kongers will no longer be able to access our website because of the national security law, then this is a serious blow to internet freedom,” Rogers said. Lokman Tsui, a digital rights expert and former journalism professor, called out the lack of clarity under the law. “The latest example shows that, at any time, Hong Kong authorities can decide to block a website. It also shows […] how intransparent the process of blocking and censorship is,” Tsui stated.
Authorities Have Wide-ranging Powers Under the National Security Law
While the city of Hong Kong is an administrative region of China, its people have enjoyed much more freedom, especially in the realm of speech and expression. However, the national security law marked the beginning of the move away from the “one party, two systems” framework. The controversial new law imposed heavy restrictions on people in the name of national security. In effect, it criminalizes acts of protest and free speech. The law has given Beijing greater control over the region. Critics say the law will erode Hong Kong’s democratic cornerstones, like a free and independent judiciary, and make it resemble that of mainland China. Under the national security law, authorities can direct service providers to delete information. It also compels them to “provide assistance” to authorities on matters concerning national security. This assistance can also include wiretapping suspects or putting them under surveillance. In a statement, the Hong Kong police claimed it has the right to force service providers to “take a disabling action on electronic messages.” However, it refused to comment on a specific case.
