Hong Kong and Mainland China: contested realities, future visions

A public forum with Anson Chan and Martin Lee In 1997 the People’s Republic of China assumed sovereignty over Hong Kong, subject to The 1984 Sino-British Joint Declaration, which guarantees Hong Kong’s civic freedoms and autonomies and the rule of law, for fifty years. The Declaration and Hong Kong’s constitution were written in expectation of universal suffrage and of accountable corruption-free Government. Nearly twenty years on, Hong Kong faces formidable challenges, including growing disaffection among citizens who feel disappointed by present-day trends that are seen to contradict the substance and spirit of the Declaration. The University of Sydney was fortunate to host a public forum with two of Hong Kong’s best-known and internationally respected civic figures Anson Chan and Martin Lee, uniquely placed to talk about present-day realities and the future prospects for Hong Kong. What has changed in recent years in Hong Kong, and what has not? Are the two co-signatories of the Declaration honouring their promises? Why are there signs of rising frustration among Hong Kong citizens? Do the recent Hong Kong elections have long-term significance? Should Hong Kong matter to the world, and why does it matter to Beijing?