Hong Kong under Chinese sovereignty

After Hong Kong's return to China, Beijing has the full right to apply the system of government that fits its constitution to the city. Even so, as we can see, it will not be easy for Beijing to act arbitrarily. The introduction of the "one country, two systems" arrangement in Hong Kong shows how the democratic values of freedom have become so characteristic of this former British colony.

Nevertheless, international meddling in Hong Kong's affairs, if it is done by disregarding Chinese sovereignty over the city, can be counterproductive for democracy. As we have seen, Hong Kong's smooth hand over was made possible by Britain's obliging attitude. We cannot imagine the consequences if Britain had been antagonistic regarding this matter. People are now waiting to see how things will proceed in Macau, which involves Portugal.

As far as we are concerned, Hong Kong's return to China cannot be seen as the mere handing over of a certain territory by one country to another, simply because the contract has expired. The case of Hong Kong demonstrates the reality that sooner or later, colonialism must come to an end. Democracy and freedom have become such very strong credos lately that any system that seeks to counter them is doomed to failure.

Now, the world is waiting to see how Hong Kong will fare after it has returned to China. Will the aura of freedom and democracy that have become so characteristic of the city be maintained? The question is easy to ask, but difficult to answer.

-- Media Indonesia, Jakarta