SRES 98: A resolution condemning Beijing’s destruction of Hong Kong’s democracy and rule of law.

Cosponsors

Summary

This resolution condemns China’s Hong Kong national security law (officially called The Law of the People’s Republic of China on Safeguarding National Security in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region), the Hong Kong government’s Safeguarding National Security Ordinance, and related human rights abuses. The resolution also (1) supports the people of Hong Kong as they fight to exercise fundamental rights and freedoms; and (2) calls upon the Hong Kong government to drop all sedition and national security law-related charges and free all defendants immediately, including Jimmy Lai.

Subjects

Asia, China, Elections, voting, political campaign regulation, Hong Kong, Human rights, Protest and dissent, Rule of law and government transparency

Policy Areas

International Affairs

Next Steps

The bill has been referred to the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. The next steps are likely committee hearings, potential markup sessions, and then a vote by the full Senate. If passed in the Senate, the bill will go to the House of Representatives for consideration.

Social Impact

The bill condemns the human rights abuses in Hong Kong and supports the people of Hong Kong in their fight for freedom and autonomy. It could encourage further international pressure on China to improve human rights practices in Hong Kong. The bill's impact on Hong Kong's status as an international hub could affect the lives of Hong Kong residents.

Business Impact

The erosion of Hong Kong's rule of law and autonomy may negatively impact its status as an international business center, potentially leading to capital flight and decreased foreign investment. The bill's support for holding the Chinese Communist Party accountable could affect business relations between the US and China. Increased scrutiny on Hong Kong's role in sanctions evasion could impact businesses involved in export-controlled goods.

Financial Impact

The potential for capital flight from Hong Kong could negatively impact global financial markets. The bill's consequences on US-China relations could affect financial ties between the two countries. Increased sanctions and reduced cooperation with Hong Kong may affect financial transactions and investment.

Bill History

Wednesday, February 26, 2025
IntroReferral - Referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations.

Wednesday, February 26, 2025
IntroReferral - Introduced in Senate

Bill Text

Introduced in Senate February 26, 2025
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Sponsors