- A number of countries across the globe have offered asylum to Hong Kong residents affected by a new security law, angering China.
- The law was introduced by Beijing, who has sovereignty over the region, and makes protesting a punishable crime
- The U.K. has already offered visas to around three million Hong Kong residents, following the introduction of the law
- Australia is considering offering a similar deal, but the announcement is yet to be finalised
- China has hit back at all of the offers, and maintain the law was introduced to bring ‘order’ to the region, following widespread protests
Australia could soon become a safe haven for Hong Kong residents, as countries across the globe react to China’s new security law for the region.
The U.K. has already offered extended five-year visas to three million Hong Kong British nationals, as well as a path to gaining citizenship.
But, the offers of help have angered China, who urge all countries to review the newly introduced security law for Hong Kong ‘objectively’.
China’s Foreign Ministry Spokesperson, Zhao Lijian, said the offers are unnecessary interference.
“We reiterate that Hong Kong affairs are China’s internal affairs that allow no foreign interference. The Chinese government is firmly determined to safeguard national sovereignty, security and development interests,” he said.
Tough new rules
The offers come after China introduced a new security law in Hong Kong, targeting succession, subversion and collusion with foreign powers.
The law also gives Beijing dramatic new powers over the region, including the introduction of its own police force, who don’t have to answer to local jurisdictions.
The law was brought in after Hong Kong nationals protested widely about their Government’s decision to consider extraditing some citizens to China.
It was drafted in secret and enacted quickly, coming into effect on July 1, the 23rd anniversary of when the U.K. handed back sovereignty of Hong Kong to China.
Thousands of people in Hong Kong took to the streets to protest the new law following its introduction, with multiple people arrested and dozens injured.
Help granted
Among the countries now offering help to Hong Kong residents, alongside the U.K., is Taiwan — who is offering re-settlement to Hong Kong citizens.
The U.S. has introduced legislation making it easier for Hong Kong residents to be classified as refugees, allowing them passage into the country.
In the E.U., German Chancellor Angela Merkel said her country is open to all refugees seeking safety.
Meanwhile, Australia is considering offering itself up as a safe haven to those who wish to leave the region, though nothing has been finalised.
“When we have made a final decision on those arrangements, then I’ll make the announcements. But if you are asking, are we prepared to step up and provide support? The answer is, yes,” said Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison on Thursday.