China officially passed legislation today to quell Hong Kong’s pro-democracy movement which started last summer.
The new law by Beijing will criminalize activities in Hong Kong that Chinese authorities deem security threats. China says the law will be implemented as early as August, and there is no need for approval from Hong Kong’s legislature.
The law also allows secret police from China to openly operate in Hong Kong. Opposition groups worry their activities will be banned.
Critics say the law might destroy Hong Kong as an international finance hub. The city’s prosperity relies on its freedom and rule of law.
In response to Beijing’s new law, the U.S. has declared that Hong Kong is no longer autonomous. That could lead to a revocation of Hong Kong’s special status under U.S. law. The decision is in the hands of President Trump.