Threats to Democracy: Lessons from Hong Kong's Demolition of Voting Rights

Strategic Insights -

As China systematically destroys Hong Kong's democratic freedoms, a stark reminder emerges of the importance of preserving and protecting voting rights in the United States. The Chinese government's actions, including the demolition of Apple Daily and the arrest of pro-democracy activists, serve as a cautionary tale of the dangers of undermining democratic institutions. Meanwhile, Senate Republicans are blocking a bill to expand voting rights in the US, exposing the internal threats to America's democratic system.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Chinese government has systematically shredded Hong Kong's democratic freedoms over the past year, including diminishing voting rights, arresting pro-democracy activists, and muzzling the media.
  • Apple Daily, a pro-democracy tabloid, was a vocal advocate for greater voting rights in Hong Kong, but was ultimately destroyed by the Chinese government, including the arrest of its owner, Jimmy Lai.
  • The US faces a similar threat to its democratic institutions, with Senate Republicans blocking a bill to expand voting rights and the ongoing impact of the "Big Lie" and January 6 insurrection.
  • The struggle for democratic values in Hong Kong serves as a reminder of the importance of standing up for these values, as exemplified by Jimmy Lai, who fought tirelessly for democracy despite the odds.
  • Lai's words, "Hong Kong is fighting the first battle in this Cold War because we share the same values," highlight the interconnectedness of democracy struggles around the world.

Statistics:

  • The Chinese government has arrested almost all pro-democracy leaders in Hong Kong.
  • The Beijing government has postponed the legislative elections in Hong Kong for a year.
  • The Hong Kong Basic Law, which was supposed to include gradual expansion to universal suffrage, has been junked by Beijing.
  • The Apple Daily was a widely read paper in Hong Kong, with over 90% of its articles advocating for democratic values.

Sources:

  • " The New York Times ": No date specified.
  • Interview with Jimmy Lai: November 2019.
  • "Basic Law" of Hong Kong: 1997.