That day in 1997 was supposed to see Hong Kong pass from British control to become part of China in a “one country, two systems” arrangement. Ireland yesterday joined 27 states in demanding Beijing reconsider the legislation, which was also denounced by the UN. The new Hong Kong law criminalises loosely interpreted offences of secession, subversion, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces, punishable by life in prison and debarment from serving in public office. In Beijing the new law was hailed a “milestone” and a “turning point” that would put Hong Kong back on track for development after a year of protests. But China will find that it is seriously underestimating the resolve of the large Hong Kong democracy movement and that a crack of the whip will not make it disappear.

Source: The Irish Times July 01, 2020 20:12 UTC