Four potential flashpoints for Hong Kong in 2019: national anthem law, mainland tourists, Lantau reclamation, and elections
- There will be plenty to push people’s buttons in the coming year
The year 2018 was rough for Hong Kong’s pro-democracy bloc, after it lost two seats in the legislature to the pro-establishment camp in two by-elections. It was also the year when the government set firm red lines on pro-independence activists, raising concerns over freedom of expression. What will shape the city’s politics and become flashpoints for conflict in 2019? We take a look at just four potential hotspots:
1. Legislation on a national anthem law
More than a year in the works, the National Anthem Bill is set to be tabled at the Legislative Council by the government in early 2019.
The proposed law has been preceded by its insertion into Hong Kong’s mini-constitution – the Basic Law – by China’s top legislative body in November 2017.
The move came after football fans in Hong Kong repeatedly booed the Chinese national anthem at local games.
Pro-democracy politicians have voiced concern that the law could restrict freedom of speech in Hong Kong, but it remains unclear if pan-democrats will protest during Legco meetings to delay the passage of the bill.
