The Basic Law (BL) is the constitutional document of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR). It enshrines within a legal document the important concepts of “One Country, Two Systems.” Under this principle, socialist policies of mainland China are not practiced in Hong Kong.
The Basic Law provides the guarantees to maintain Hong Kong’s existing way of life, including socioeconomic development, the rights and duties of Hong Kong people, the rule of law and other areas.
The Basic Law was put into effect July 1, 1997.
The maintenance of public order in the HKSAR is the responsibility of the HKSAR Government. The People's Liberation Army stationed in the HKSAR is responsible for the defense of the HKSAR and does not interfere in the internal affairs of the HKSAR. Expenditure for maintaining these military forces is borne by China's Central People’s Government. (BL Article 14)
The Basic Law sets out the blueprint for the democratic development of the HKSAR. The Chief Executive and members of the Legislative Council shall be returned by elections held locally. The method for selecting the Chief Executive and forming the Legislative Council shall be specified in light of the actual situation in the HKSAR and in accordance with the principle of gradual and orderly progress. The ultimate aim is the election of the Chief Executive and all the members of the Legislative Council by universal suffrage. The Basic Law provides a mechanism to review the method for returning the Chief Executive and the Legislative Council after 2007. (BL Articles 45; 68; Annexes I and II)
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