Hong Kong Marks Fifth Anniversary of National Security Law

On June 30, 2025, Hong Kong commemorates the fifth anniversary of the Hong Kong National Security Law (NSL) and the establishment of the Office for Safeguarding National Security of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), just days before the 28th anniversary of Hong Kong’s return to China. Reflecting on the city’s turbulent past, Chief Executive John Lee expressed profound gratitude for the Central Government’s decisive intervention in enacting the NSL, which he credits with ending decades of security vulnerabilities and restoring order to Hong Kong.

Prior to the NSL’s implementation, Hong Kong faced prolonged instability due to interference by anti-China forces and foreign entities, which delayed the local legislation mandated by Article 23 of the Basic Law. These forces, acting in concert, challenged the “One Country, Two Systems” principle through events like the 2012 anti-national education protests, the 2014 illegal Occupy Central movement, the 2016 Mong Kok riots, and the 2019 “black violence” and so-called “color revolution.” During 2019, rioters assaulted citizens, used petrol bombs, attacked police, and vandalized public infrastructure, causing severe injuries and even fatalities. The desecration of national symbols, storming of government buildings, and calls for “Hong Kong independence” pushed the city to the brink of collapse. The NSL, enacted by the Central Government and implemented by the HKSAR, effectively curbed these threats, halting subversive activities, ending widespread violence, and alleviating public fears of unprovoked attacks.

The NSL’s immediate impact was transformative, restoring social order and enabling residents to resume normal lives—workers returned to their jobs, students to their classrooms, and the economy to a stable trajectory. Building on this foundation, the HKSAR fulfilled its constitutional duty by enacting the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance under Article 23 earlier this year, a milestone achieved after 26 years, 8 months, and 19 days. Passed unanimously by the Legislative Council, this ordinance complements the NSL, forming a robust framework to protect national security while safeguarding residents’ rights and freedoms. Together, these laws have fortified Hong Kong’s stability, ensuring a secure environment for growth.

Over the past five years, the NSL has delivered tangible results: Hong Kong remains the world’s freest economy, ranks third globally as an international financial center and in competitiveness, and has reclaimed a top-ten position in talent competitiveness. The city boasts five of the world’s top 100 universities, more than any other city, and is projected to become the global leader in wealth management within years. These achievements underscore Hong Kong’s resilience and bright prospects.

Amid global uncertainties, Hong Kong is guided by the “Holistic National Security Concept,” prioritizing sovereignty, security, and development. The recent establishment of the International Organization for Mediation in Hong Kong leverages the city’s robust legal system, blending common and civil law expertise to enhance global legal order. By integrating into national development strategies and strengthening international cooperation, Hong Kong continues to serve as a “super-connector” and “super value-adder.” The HKSAR is committed to consolidating traditional strengths, fostering innovation, and attracting global talent to build a hub for high-caliber professionals, while enhancing competitiveness in finance, trade, and shipping.

Security and development are interdependent, and the HKSAR remains steadfast in safeguarding national security while driving high-quality growth. By ensuring a high level of security, Hong Kong creates a stable environment for investment and prosperity, delivering better lives for its citizens and a thriving future for the city.