🔗 Share this article Defining the Legislative Council in Hong Kong: A Quick Explanation. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region's LegCo serves as a regional legislature with the power to enact and revise laws for the region. Nonetheless, elections for this body have witnessed a notable absence in genuine political alternatives amid sweeping systemic transformations in recent years. Following the transfer of sovereignty in 1997, a framework of "one nation, two systems" was promised, vowing that Hong Kong would maintain a level of independence. Gradually, analysts argue that these freedoms have been steadily diminished. Major Milestones and Shifts During 2014, a proposal was put forward that was designed to allow residents to vote for the Chief Executive. Critically, any such election was restricted to nominees sanctioned by the mainland government. The year 2019 experienced months of demonstrations, which featured an episode where protesters breached the government building to demonstrate against a controversial law. The Consequence of the NSL Implemented in mid-2020, the security legislation handed unprecedented powers to the mainland over Hong Kong's affairs. Activities such as collusion were outlawed. After this law, the primary democratic party dissolved. Today's Election Process The council polls are regarded as Hong Kong's main electoral exercise. Nevertheless, rules established in 2021 now ensure that only hopefuls deemed loyal are able to run for office. Seat Composition: At present, only 20 out of 90 seats are filled by public ballot. Remaining Seats: The majority are selected by a government-aligned body. Proposed Standards: Additionally suggested standards would require legislators to publicly support the mainland's oversight. Voter Behavior Amid most means of expression now criminalized, abstaining from voting has been seen as one of the limited peaceful ways for residents to express dissent. As a result unprecedentedly low participation rates in recent LegCo polls.