Hong Kong’s implementation of Article 23, the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance, has brought about both internal and external impacts. Despite the lack of arrests under the law so far, some Hongkongers have removed protest slogans and discarded copies of Apple Daily newspaper, while local companies have conducted employee screenings and supplier checks to navigate potential risks.
Internationally, concerns have been raised by the United States, United Kingdom, Japan, Canada, the European Union, and the United Nations, alleging that the law’s broad and vague language could erode civil liberties. Australia and Taiwan have revised their travel advisories to warn residents about the law. However, the government has decided against large-scale publicity campaigns or high-level delegations to explain the law overseas, believing that critics may interpret it as suppressing dissent.
Foreign diplomats in Hong Kong have adopted a wait-and-see approach, stating that the key factor will be how the law is applied. Concerns over the potential for the law to stifle dissent and its impact on foreign businesses and diplomatic relations remain. However, high-profile security trials, such as those involving Apple Daily founder Jimmy Lai and 47 opposition activists, will be closely monitored to determine future responses.
The government has shifted to a softer, reactive approach, focusing on the economy and providing easy-to-understand materials on the law for the public and businesses. A key message is that prosecution under Article 23 requires a high threshold and ordinary people will not be affected unless they intend to harm national security.
While pro-Beijing voices advocate using “people’s diplomacy” or sending government-business delegations to address concerns abroad, the government remains skeptical about the effectiveness of such measures. Instead, it believes that hosting mega events can showcase a safer Hong Kong and dispel fears. However, some communication specialists argue that a long-term strategy and a new tagline for Hong Kong are crucial to address the negative perceptions and regain trust internationally.
