In a significant move to promote understanding of Hong Kong's national security laws, the Department of Justice, under the leadership of Secretary Paul Lam, SC, has launched the Chinese version of the "Annotations of the Hong Kong National Security Law and Sedition Offences in the Crimes Ordinance". This comprehensive resource, previously released in English in December last year, collates and summarizes judgments concerning the Hong Kong National Security Law and sections 9 and 10 of the Crimes Ordinance, Cap. 200. Both Chinese and English versions of the Annotations are now accessible to the public through a dedicated website, www.hknslannot.gov.hk/en.
Secretary Lam emphasized the obligation of all institutions, organizations, and individuals in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region to abide by the Hong Kong National Security Law and local laws safeguarding national security. He stressed the importance of this body of case law in helping understand the requirements of national security laws and their application by the courts. Lam expressed gratitude to Professor Albert Chen for his admirable guidance and contributions as the project's Honorary Consultant Editor.
In addition to the Annotations, the Department of Justice and the Security Bureau have compiled "Compendium 2024", a collection of more than 10 speeches and articles regarding the Hong Kong National Security Law or Safeguarding National Security Ordinance. These materials, published by officials of the Central Authorities and the HKSAR, experts, and scholars between 2022 and April 2024, provide valuable insights into the interpretation and application of national security legislation. The Compendium also includes important documents concerning the "Interpretation by the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress of Article 14 and Article 47 of the 'Law of the People's Republic of China on Safeguarding National Security in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region'".
The launch of these resources demonstrates the HKSAR government's commitment to promoting a clear understanding of national security laws and their implementation. By making these materials easily accessible to the public, the Department of Justice aims to foster a greater appreciation of the legal framework surrounding national security and its significance in maintaining stability and prosperity in Hong Kong.
The Annotations and Compendium serve as valuable tools for legal professionals, academics, and the general public to navigate the complexities of national security legislation. They provide a comprehensive overview of the evolving jurisprudence in this area, enabling a more informed discourse on the subject. The inclusion of speeches and articles by experts and officials further enriches the understanding of the context and rationale behind the laws.
As Hong Kong continues to adapt to the new realities of national security legislation, resources like the Annotations and Compendium play a crucial role in promoting transparency and clarity. They serve as a testament to the HKSAR government's dedication to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that all stakeholders have access to the information necessary to comprehend and comply with the legal requirements.
The launch of the Chinese version of the Annotations and the publication of Compendium 2024 mark significant milestones in Hong Kong's ongoing efforts to strengthen its national security framework. By providing a comprehensive and accessible resource for understanding the intricacies of these laws, the Department of Justice has taken a proactive step towards fostering a well-informed society that is better equipped to navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by the evolving legal landscape.
