Knowra Basic Law of Hong Kong Basic Law of Hong Kong Hong Kong’s constitutional document, enacted by China in 1990 and effective from the 1997 handover. It establishes the region’s institutions and framework for autonomy under Chinese sovereignty.
One country, two systems : A framework for governing Hong Kong and Macao as parts of China while preserving distinct systems. The Basic Law gives this governing framework legal form in Hong Kong.
Sino-British Joint Declaration : A 1984 agreement setting terms for the transfer of Hong Kong from British to Chinese sovereignty. It committed China to Hong Kong’s future system, which the Basic Law later specified.
Hong Kong autonomy : The authority Hong Kong exercises over local affairs within the limits of Chinese sovereignty. The Basic Law defines the scope and constitutional limits of this autonomy.
Hong Kong National People's Congress decision on electoral reform : A 2014 decision by China’s national legislature’s standing committee setting conditions for Hong Kong’s chief-executive election. It demonstrates how central decisions can shape arrangements governed by the Basic Law.
Chief Executive of Hong Kong : Hong Kong’s head of government, responsible for leading the administration and implementing laws. The Basic Law defines the office, its selection, and its responsibilities.
Hong Kong handover : The 1997 transfer of sovereignty over Hong Kong from the United Kingdom to China. The Basic Law took effect when the handover established the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
Hong Kong national security law : A 2020 law imposed by China that criminalizes specified national-security offenses in Hong Kong. Its enactment under the Basic Law’s Annex III route altered Hong Kong’s legal landscape.
Hong Kong mini-constitution : An informal description of the Basic Law’s role as Hong Kong’s principal constitutional document. The label captures its function but does not make it a constitution enacted by Hong Kong.
Legislative Council of Hong Kong : Hong Kong’s legislature, which enacts laws, approves budgets, and monitors government work. The Basic Law establishes the council’s composition, powers, and legislative procedures.
Drafting Committee for the Basic Law : The body established to draft Hong Kong’s constitutional document before the 1997 handover. Its work produced the text enacted by China’s national legislature.
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