Beneath the calm, Hong Kong's new security law drives deeper, quieter changes
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Life in Hong Kong appears unchanged on the surface after the new national security law took effect. However, there is a deeper wave of adaptation among residents who are living under the threat of more extensive restrictions. The law has led to an increase in inquiries about emigration, with more than half of those asking citing the new ordinance as a reason. Many pro-democracy activists have been arrested, silenced, or forced into exile since the 2020 law was imposed. Civil society groups have been disbanded and outspoken media outlets have been shut down. The law targets colluding with external forces, unlawful disclosure of state secrets, sabotage, and espionage. Sedition offenses carry a sentence of up to seven years, or 10 years if working with foreign governments or organizations. The law has prompted adjustments in the legal and business communities, with some companies restricting access to global databases and reviewing whether sensitive roles should be moved elsewhere. Hong Kong's government defends the law, stating that it improves the city's legal framework for safeguarding national security. However, critics argue that it infringes on freedom of speech and press freedom. Residents are adopting coping strategies seen on mainland China, avoiding voicing opinions that might get them in trouble. The U.S.-funded news outlet Radio Free Asia has closed its Hong Kong bureau due to safety concerns under the new legislation. Overall, there is a desire among some residents to move on from the topic of national security and focus more on the real economy and business.

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https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/beneath-calm-hong-kongs-new-security-law-drives-108913809