Condemns Hong Kong national security law passed by People's Republic of China on June 30, 2020.
The resolution highlights that this national security law violates the principles established under the 'one country, two systems' framework that has governed Hong Kong since its return to Chinese sovereignty in 1997. Proponents of ACR15 argue that the law undermines the high degree of autonomy and freedoms previously enjoyed by Hong Kong. The resolution expresses a strong condemnation of this infringement on human rights and civil liberties, which could have broader implications for international relations and the perception of Chinese governance in the region.
ACR15 is a Concurrent Resolution put forth by the New Jersey Legislature to condemn the national security law enacted by the People's Republic of China on June 30, 2020. This law, aimed at quelling dissent in Hong Kong, is described as draconian, promoting severe penalties for vaguely defined offenses such as separatism and collusion with foreign entities. The resolution emphasizes the rapid and secretive manner in which the law was passed, bypassing standard legislative procedures, thereby eliminating public input and transparency, which has historically been a hallmark of Hong Kong's legal and political framework.
Notably, ACR15 draws attention to ongoing protests in Hong Kong, which have been intensified by this law. The public outcry against perceived governmental overreach correlates with calls for amnesty for arrested demonstrators and the demand for comprehensive democratic reforms. The resolution poses critical questions about the role of foreign influence in Hong Kong’s internal affairs and the Chinese government's narrative of maintaining stability and social order at the expense of fundamental freedoms. This sets a contentious backdrop for the discussions surrounding ACR15, reflecting deep-seated tensions over sovereignty, governance, and human rights.