The Push for National Security in Hong Kong
Hong Kong is taking significant steps to instil the importance of national security among its residents and beyond. From legislative proceedings to a large-scale exhibition, the city is going “all out and in all directions” in this effort.
Preventing Social Unrest
The move is seen as a response to the social unrest that gripped Hong Kong in 2019. The government is striving to build mainstream values characterised by patriotism and affection for the country and Hong Kong.
Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs, Mr Erick Tsang, highlighted the importance of promoting patriotism and cultivating a patriotic atmosphere in society during a Legislative Council session on Dec 11.
Lessons from the Past
Beijing’s top official in Hong Kong, Mr Zheng Yanxiong, also reminded the city to learn from past mistakes and remain vigilant in safeguarding national security despite social stability.
The reminders of ongoing security threats reflect the lasting impact of the 2019 events on both residents and officials.
The National Security Exhibition Gallery
As part of the patriotic education campaign, Hong Kong unveiled a 1,100-sq-m national security exhibition gallery in the Hong Kong Museum of History. The gallery covers various aspects of national security, including food security, financial security, and cyber security.
Exhibition Highlights
- Displays featuring footage and statistics from the 2019 protests
- Perspective different from Western media narratives
- Educating the younger generation on the truth of the protests
Patriotism and Insecurity
While some view the patriotic push positively, others see it as a reflection of the government’s deep sense of insecurity. Efforts to instil patriotism are equated with complete loyalty to the Communist Party of China.
The government’s intensified patriotic education is aimed at maintaining social stability and economic prosperity, especially in light of recent challenges faced by the Chinese economy and Hong Kong.
Expert Insights
Response to 2019 Protests
Dr Wilson Chan, director of policy research and co-founder of the Pagoda Institute, believes that Beijing’s emphasis on patriotic education is a direct response to the unprecedented protests in 2019. The Chinese government aims to prevent foreign intervention in Hong Kong by promoting its official narrative of the events.
National Security Threat
Failure to align narratives within Hong Kong with Beijing’s version of events could pose a national security threat by creating disharmony that hinders governance. The Communist Party of China maintains its legitimacy through economic performance and nationalism, making patriotic education crucial in sustaining its rule.
Conclusion
The push for national security in Hong Kong is not just about safeguarding the city but also about shaping narratives and instilling values that align with Beijing’s agenda. As the city grapples with economic challenges and social unrest, the importance of patriotism and security education has taken on a new significance.
FAQs
Why is patriotic education important in Hong Kong?
Patriotic education is crucial in Hong Kong to align the city’s values with Beijing’s agenda, maintain social stability, and prevent foreign intervention.
What are the key aspects covered in the national security exhibition gallery?
The exhibition covers various aspects of national security, including food security, financial security, and cyber security, along with footage and statistics from the 2019 protests.