Hong Kong
Freedom at a Glance
Global Freedom
40 / 100
Partly Free
The people of Hong Kong, a special administrative region of China, traditionally enjoyed substantial civil liberties and the rule of law under their local constitution, the Basic Law. However, the implementation of the National Security Law (NSL) in 2020 has amounted a multifront attack on the “one country, two systems” framework. The territory’s most prominent prodemocracy figures have been arrested under its provisions, and NSL charges or the threat of charges have resulted in the closure of political parties, major independent news outlets, peaceful nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), and unions.
Research & Recommendations
Hong Kong*
Partly Free
40
100
| PR Political Rights | 9 40 |
| CL Civil Liberties | 31 60 |
Last Year's Score & Status
41
100
Partly Free
A country or territory’s Freedom in the World status depends on its aggregate Political Rights score, on a scale of 0–40, and its aggregate Civil Liberties score, on a scale of 0–60.
See the methodology.
* Indicates a territory as opposed to an independent country.
Overview
The people of Hong Kong, a special administrative region of China, traditionally enjoyed substantial civil liberties and the rule of law under their local constitution, the Basic Law. However, the 2020 implementation of the National Security Law (NSL) has amounted a multifront attack on the “one country, two systems” framework. The territory’s most prominent prodemocracy figures have been arrested and convicted of violating the NSL, while political parties, independent news outlets, nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), and unions have been disbanded. The 2021 electoral overhaul permitted mainland authorities to vet candidates and imposed other provisions that ultimately ensure Beijing near-total control over the selection of Hong Kong authorities.
Freedom in the World 2025 Policy Recommendations
Prioritize strengthening the rule of law and delivering economic dividends in the aftermath of political transitions
In countries where democratic forces have come to power after periods of antidemocratic rule, the new governments should pursue an agenda that protects and expands freedoms even as it delivers tangible economic and social benefits to citizens.
In countries emerging from war or the collapse of authoritarian regimes, focus on safety, reconciliation, reform
These countries must act swiftly to release all political prisoners, build or revitalize democratic institutions, reform police and other security forces, organize and hold competitive multiparty elections, and ensure accountability for past human rights violations.
Bolster checks and balances to mitigate the threat of democratic backsliding
In countries where there has been significant erosion of political rights and civil liberties, policymakers, legislators, jurists, civic activists, and donor communities should work to strengthen institutional guardrails and norms that serve to constrain elected leaders with antidemocratic or illiberal aims.
The China Dissent Monitor features interactive research on collective action in public spaces and cases of online dissent, filling a critical information gap in a country with severe media restrictions and risks associated with exposing dissent.
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The China Dissent Monitor features quarterly updated interactive data on collective action in public spaces and cases of online dissent.
The China Media Bulletin is a monthly email newsletter that provides unique insight on censorship, disinformation, media freedom, and internet freedom issues related to the People's Republic of China.
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The China Media Bulletin is a monthly email newsletter that provides unique insight on censorship, disinformation, media freedom, and internet freedom issues related to the People's Republic of China, drawing on both English and Chinese-language sources.
News and Updates
Featured
Freedom House Perspectives
News Releases & Media Coverage
Policy & Advocacy
Country Facts
Basic Facts
Freedom in the World Score
40
/ 100
Partly Free
Population: 7,346,000
Internet Facts
Status
Not Tracked
Election Facts
Status
Past Election
Date of Election
December 19, 2021
Type of Election
Legislative
Internet Penetration
90.92%
Election Year
2021
Vulnerability Index
48
/ 100
Transnational Repression
Status
Not Tracked
