Five years after NSL, John Lee points to stability and challenges

Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu said the Hong Kong National Security Law (NSL) has ensured social stability, safeguarded residents' livelihoods, and secured the city’s development over the past five years, with international rating agencies consistently affirming Hong Kong’s strengths.

Writing in multiple newspapers published Monday, Lee noted that Hong Kong remains the world’s freest economy, ranks third globally as an international financial center and in competitiveness, and has re-entered the top 10 in talent competitiveness.

The city is also home to five of the world’s top 100 universities—the highest concentration of elite institutions in any city—while market analysts predict Hong Kong could soon become the world’s largest wealth management hub.

From turmoil to stability

Lee reflected on Hong Kong’s post-handover challenges, citing prolonged interference by anti-China agitators and foreign forces that delayed the enactment of Article 23 legislation under the Basic Law, leaving a critical gap in national security defenses.

These destabilizing forces, he said, colluded to push Hong Kong toward chaos, culminating in the 2019 riots and a local version of "color revolution."

During the unrest, rioters assaulted civilians, hurled petrol bombs, attacked police, and vandalized public infrastructure. One civilian was fatally struck in the head by a brick thrown by protesters.

"Hong Kong was plunged into a dark abyss, with safety completely eroded," Lee wrote.

Central government’s decisive intervention

The CE credited the central government with saving Hong Kong by enacting the NSL at the national level, allowing the city to restore order and revive its economy.

"The NSL closed the legal loophole that had left Hong Kong defenseless in national security for over two decades," he said.

He also emphasized the historic passage of the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance earlier this year—fulfilling a 26-year, 8-month, and 19-day constitutional duty under Article 23. Together, the NSL and the new ordinance form a robust legal shield, ensuring Hong Kong’s security while protecting residents’ rights and freedoms, said Lee.

Looking ahead: A secure and prosperous future

Lee stressed the need to uphold a "holistic view of national security" to defend sovereignty, security, and development interests, enabling Hong Kong to achieve high-quality growth. 

"With a solid legal foundation, Hong Kong’s future is brighter than ever," the Hong Kong leader said.
 

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