China is erasing its border with Hong Kong

Summary

This video explores the complex political and historical situation of Hong Kong, focusing on the tension between its autonomy and increasing influence from mainland China. It delves into the 1997 handover from Britain to China under the 'One country, two systems' framework, the changes in Hong Kong's economy and identity, and the growing Chinese presence in the city. Key moments like the Tiananmen Square massacre anniversary, the Umbrella Movement, and the censorship efforts highlight the struggle for democracy and Hong Kong's fight to maintain its unique identity amidst China's growing control.

Takeaways

• 😀 The border between Hong Kong and mainland China is unique because it divides the same country into two distinct entities.
• 🌉 China has built the world's largest sea-crossing bridge connecting Hong Kong with Macau and mainland China, symbolizing the physical integration of Hong Kong into China.
• 🔴 The 'One Country, Two Systems' model, which allowed Hong Kong to maintain its autonomy after its return to China in 1997, is set to expire in 2047.
• 📆 The expiration of Hong Kong's autonomy by 2047 is becoming a concern as China shows increasing influence over Hong Kong's political and cultural life.
• 🇬🇧 The British Empire colonized Hong Kong after the Opium Wars, making it a key economic hub, but the 99-year lease agreement expired in 1997, leading to its handover to China.
• 🛂 Despite the official return to China in 1997, the border remained symbolic of Hong Kong's autonomy with its separate legal and political systems.
• 🪖 The presence of the Chinese military in Hong Kong, although limited, symbolizes the sovereignty of China over the region.
• 💥 Hong Kong’s role as China’s leading economic city diminished as mainland cities like Shenzhen grew rapidly, reducing Hong Kong's importance in China's economy.
• 🎤 The Chinese government increasingly promotes a pro-China narrative in Hong Kong's media, with Mandarin becoming the dominant language, further erasing Hong Kong's distinct identity.
• 📚 Efforts to introduce pro-China textbooks into Hong Kong's education system reflect China's attempt to shape the city's future generation's views and diminish its independence.
• ☂️ The Umbrella Movement of 2014 marked a significant protest against China's interference in Hong Kong's electoral system, sparking a political awakening among Hong Kongers and growing resistance to Chinese control.

Q & A

What is unique about the border separating Hong Kong from China?

The border is unique because it separates the same country into two parts. Additionally, it has an expiration date of July 1st, 2047, after which China has promised to allow Hong Kong to remain highly autonomous until that date.

Why is China building the world’s largest sea-crossing bridge, and what is its significance?

The bridge connects Hong Kong, Macau, and mainland China, symbolizing the physical integration of Hong Kong into China. It is seen as an umbilical cord, meant to make Hong Kong’s connection to China more apparent and tangible, especially as China seeks to erase the border.

What is the significance of the Tiananmen Square massacre anniversary in Hong Kong?

Hong Kong commemorates the Tiananmen Square massacre annually, a reminder of the brutal crackdown on pro-democracy protests in 1989. The vigil is a symbol of resistance against Chinese authoritarianism, and it has become more personal as Hong Kong faces increasing influence from China.

How did Hong Kong become a British colony, and how did its relationship with China evolve?

Hong Kong became a British colony after the Opium Wars in the 1800s. Over time, it developed into a thriving, economically distinct society. In 1997, under an agreement between Britain and China, Hong Kong was handed back to China under the 'One country, two systems' arrangement, which promised autonomy for 50 years.

What was the 'One country, two systems' agreement?

The 'One country, two systems' agreement was a treaty between China and Britain, ensuring that Hong Kong would retain its legal and economic systems, freedoms of speech, religion, and press for 50 years after the 1997 handover.

How did China’s economic growth impact Hong Kong's relevance?

As Chinese cities like Shenzhen grew into economic powerhouses, Hong Kong's relative importance declined. From contributing 27% of China's GDP in the early 1990s, Hong Kong’s share has fallen to just 3%, reducing its leverage and prompting China to exert more influence.

How has Chinese media influence impacted Hong Kong?

Chinese influence has increased through media changes, such as the national anthem being played at the start of Hong Kong's evening news and the use of Mandarin instead of Cantonese. This reflects a growing push for Hong Kong to adopt more aspects of mainland Chinese culture and politics.

What was the controversy surrounding Hong Kong's education system?

The Chinese government attempted to promote textbooks in Hong Kong that favored the Chinese system of government and criticized multi-party democracies like that of the U.S. This sparked concerns over the erosion of Hong Kong’s educational autonomy and the influence of Chinese propaganda.

What triggered the Umbrella Movement in Hong Kong?

The Umbrella Movement was sparked by China’s attempt to control Hong Kong's electoral process, specifically by limiting who could run for office in an effort to secure a pro-China candidate. This infringement on Hong Kong’s democratic rights led to mass protests in 2014.

How has Hong Kong's identity changed since the handover to China?

Hong Kong's identity has shifted from a city with a strong sense of autonomy to one increasingly influenced by mainland China. Public opinion surveys show that fewer Hong Kongers identify as Chinese, reflecting growing resistance to Beijing's influence and a stronger sense of a distinct Hong Kong identity.