Without Legislative Seats, What’s Next for Hong Kong’s Pro-Democracy Camp?

On Nov. 11, the 15 remaining pro-democracy lawmakers in Hong Kong's legislature said they will resign from their posts Nov. 12 after authorities disqualified four of their colleagues for allegedly advocating for U.S. sanctions. By leaving the legislature, Hong Kong’s pro-democracy camp has lost its only remaining official platform to express discontent with Beijing's encroachment -- setting the stage for a potentially volatile dynamic. However, the threat of the national security law and COVID-19 restrictions will leave many Hong Kongers wary of launching disruptive protests against the government, granting Beijing more freedom to rein in Hong Kong’s political crisis without damaging the city’s status as a global financial hub. ...