What is One Country, Two Systems?
Historical Background
Key Points
10 points- 1.
Hong Kong (and Macau) would retain its capitalist economic system, distinct from mainland China's socialist system.
- 2.
Maintenance of its common law legal system, separate from mainland China's civil law system.
- 3.
High degree of autonomy in all matters except defense and foreign affairs, which are handled by Beijing.
- 4.
Hong Kong would maintain its own currency, customs territory, and separate membership in international organizations (e.g., WTO, APEC).
- 5.
Guaranteed fundamental rights and freedoms, including freedom of speech, press, assembly, and an independent judiciary.
- 6.
The principle of 'Hong Kong people ruling Hong Kong' was central, implying local governance.
- 7.
The framework was designed to last for 50 years from the handover (1997 for Hong Kong), until 2047.
- 8.
Hong Kong would maintain its own immigration controls and border.
- 9.
The Chief Executive and legislature were to be gradually elected by universal suffrage, a promise that has been largely unfulfilled.
- 10.
Mainland China's socialist laws and policies would generally not apply in Hong Kong.
Visual Insights
Evolution of 'One Country, Two Systems'
This timeline illustrates the key events in the evolution of the 'One Country, Two Systems' framework, from its proposal to recent developments affecting its implementation.
The 'One Country, Two Systems' framework was designed to facilitate the peaceful reunification of territories with differing political and economic systems with mainland China. However, its implementation has faced challenges, particularly in Hong Kong.
- 1980sDeng Xiaoping proposes 'One Country, Two Systems'
- 1997Hong Kong handover to China
- 1999Macau handover to China
- 2014Umbrella Movement in Hong Kong
- 2020Imposition of National Security Law in Hong Kong
- 2021Changes to Hong Kong's electoral system
- 2022John Lee elected as Hong Kong's Chief Executive
- 2026China supports reunification forces in Taiwan
Understanding 'One Country, Two Systems'
This mind map illustrates the key components and related aspects of the 'One Country, Two Systems' framework.
One Country, Two Systems
- ●Historical Context
- ●Key Provisions
- ●Challenges
- ●Future Prospects
Recent Developments
6 developmentsIncreasing erosion of autonomy and civil liberties in Hong Kong, particularly after the 2019 pro-democracy protests.
Imposition of the National Security Law (2020) by Beijing, widely seen by many as a direct violation of the spirit and letter of 'One Country, Two Systems'.
Changes to Hong Kong's electoral system in 2021 to ensure only 'patriots' (those loyal to Beijing) can hold office, diminishing democratic representation.
International criticism regarding China's actions and the perceived breach of its commitments under the Joint Declaration.
The ongoing debate about the future of the framework as the 50-year period approaches, with many believing it has already been dismantled.
Migration of Hong Kong residents to other countries due to political uncertainty.