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'This is the end of Hong Kong': China pushes security law after unrest

26 Sept 07:36 Key points summarised by AI

China's parliament announced plans to propose a national security law for Hong Kong, aiming to strengthen enforcement mechanisms and uphold the 'One Country, Two Systems' policy following last year's pro-democracy protests.
Pro-democracy activists and lawmakers decried the move as 'the end of Hong Kong's autonomy,' fearing it will curtail civil rights and tighten Beijing's grip on the semi-autonomous city.
The proposed legislation revives a controversial Article 23 provision of Hong Kong's Basic Law, which has never been implemented due to deep public fears it would erode the city's freedoms, with a 2003 attempt shelved after massive protests.
The United States warned the law would be 'highly destabilizing,' threatening strong condemnation, potential impact on Hong Kong's preferential trading status, and new sanctions against entities involved in curbing the city's autonomy.

Today 17:04 Key points summarised by AI

Civic groups, including those representing labourers and older people, submitted a protest letter demanding the Bhumjaithai Party withdraw bills to shift funding for four organizations (Thai PBS, Older Persons Fund, Thai Health Promotion Foundation, Sports Authority of Thailand) from earmarked taxes to the central government budget.
Leaders argue these organizations were established for public interest, supporting public service media, elder care, public health, and sports development, and any amendments should consider all stakeholders' views.
Over 70% of parliamentary poll respondents opposed the proposed changes, prompting civic leaders to call on the ruling party to respect the people's will and withdraw the bills.
A network of slum dwellers also opposes the funding changes, threatening a rally if the government fails to address their demands.