In a significant legislative move, Democratic Senator Ben Cardin introduced the Hong Kong Policy Act of 2024 on December 11, 2024. This bill aims to terminate Hong Kong's special treatment under U.S. law, asserting that Beijing has violated commitments made under the Sino-British Joint Declaration, thereby undermining the region's autonomy and human rights [0480c920].
The proposed legislation seeks to amend the U.S.-Hong Kong Policy Act of 1992, which would eliminate special privileges previously granted to Hong Kong. It also aims to establish a 'Hong Kong Internet Freedom Program,' which would promote digital rights and freedoms in the region [0480c920]. Additionally, the act proposes creating legal pathways for Hong Kong residents to migrate to the U.S. and offers temporary protected status for those already residing in the country [0480c920].
This legislative action follows a series of measures taken by the U.S. government in response to China's increasing control over Hong Kong. Notably, the Trump administration removed Hong Kong's special status in 2020 after the enactment of the controversial national security law, which has been widely criticized for curtailing freedoms and rights in the territory [0480c920].
As the U.S. continues to grapple with its stance on China, experts warn that such legislative measures could provoke further tensions between the two nations. The Chinese government has condemned these actions, labeling them as a form of 'new McCarthyism' and asserting that they threaten diplomatic relations [eebd5c99].
In a recent development, certain U.S. lawmakers have proposed a 'bill' that threatens sanctions on Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) officials, prompting a strong response from China's Foreign Ministry. On January 26, 2025, a spokesperson expressed dissatisfaction with U.S. interference, emphasizing that HKSAR's social order has been restored post-national security law and that the region ranks third globally as an international financial center [d995cfe2].
The spokesperson criticized U.S. politicians for fabricating laws that violate international norms and reiterated that HKSAR's rights and freedoms are guaranteed. They urged U.S. lawmakers to cease their interference in HKSAR affairs, highlighting the importance of respecting China's sovereignty [d995cfe2].
As the implications of the Hong Kong Policy Act of 2024 unfold, analysts emphasize the need for a balanced approach to U.S.-China relations, advocating for cooperation rather than confrontation. The international community watches closely as these developments could have far-reaching effects on both U.S. foreign policy and the lives of Hong Kong residents [a5a46136].