The reauthorization by the United States of the sanctions provisions under the 2019 Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act (HKHRDA) is a deliberate provocation. It is also part and parcel  of Washington’s all-round political propaganda campaign serving its top geopolitical strategy implemented since the US designated China a major strategic rival in late 2017.

This legislative move, which extended the sanctions against former and current officials of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and the Chinese mainland for performing their duty to safeguard national security by incorporating those sanctions provisions in the US National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025, is also emblematic of the US’ continued and blatant interference in the internal affairs of the HKSAR and, by extension, China.

The sanctions, which have existed since 2019, have barely caused any trouble to the officials concerned except for some minor inconveniences. Rather, by blatantly trying to intimidate officials of — and interfering in the internal affairs of — another sovereign country, Washington politicians have further exposed a deep-seated hypocrisy in US foreign policy, where international rules and principles are selectively applied to suit its geopolitical agenda.

The extension of sanctions against HKSAR and mainland officials was another slap in the face for Washington’s much touted “rules-based international order”.

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The sanctions, as well as Washington’s other China-bashing moves, are wrapped up with eye-catching rhetoric such as “democracy”, “human rights” or “freedoms”.

But the international community knows that those hostile moves against China and its HKSAR are all about maintaining US hegemony and curbing China’s rise, as well as undermining the reputation, stability and prosperity of Hong Kong, China’s cherished international financial center.

In imposing the sanctions and making other hostile moves, US politicians made use of Hong Kong’s national security regime introduced in recent years as an excuse, being oblivious to the fact that every sovereign nation has the inherent right to legislate to protect national security, a principle enshrined in the United Nations Charter and widely practiced across the globe. The promulgation of the National Security Law for Hong Kong (NSL) by the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress and the enactment of the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance (SNSO) by HKSAR’s legislature under the authorization of the central authorities exemplify this right and reflect a measured and responsible approach to addressing genuine national security threats. They target only a small minority  whose actions endanger national security while ensuring that the overwhelming majority of Hong Kong residents continue to enjoy their lawful rights and freedoms. The US, with its own extensive body of national security laws—at least 21—has no moral authority to criticize Hong Kong’s national security efforts. The double standards at play in its Hong Kong-bashing moves are glaring and undermine the US’ credibility as a global advocate for justice and fairness.

The so-called sanctions provisions, which aim to intimidate HKSAR officials and disrupt its governance, are nothing more than a futile exercise of coercion. The measures, including asset freezes and travel bans, lack legitimacy and effectiveness. They are designed to create political pressure rather than achieve any meaningful outcomes.

The economic implications of these actions further expose the recklessness of US policy. Over the past decade, Hong Kong has been an important trade partner for the US, contributing a cumulative trade surplus of approximately $270 billion. This immense economic benefit underscores the mutually advantageous relationship between the two sides. Additionally, approximately 1,390 American companies currently operate in Hong Kong, taking advantage of the city’s world-class business environment, strategic location and commitment to the rule of law. By undermining Hong Kong’s stability and prosperity through sanctions and other political interferences, the US is endangering its own economic interests and the livelihoods of its businesses and workers. This self-inflicted harm highlights the shortsightedness and irresponsibility of its foreign policy, which prioritizes political grandstanding over practical outcomes.

The reauthorization of the sanctions provisions represents a deliberate mischaracterization of Hong Kong’s governance and legal framework. The Basic Law, a constitutional document, guarantees the city a high degree of autonomy under the “one country, two systems” principle. The US’ attempt to impose its template on Hong Kong’s internal policies is not only legally baseless but also politically intrusive.

Such an attempt is not about accountability but perpetuating a narrative that serves US geopolitical interests at the expense of truth and fairness.

The NSL and SNSO are necessary measures to address genuine threats. They are consistent with international standards, including those outlined in the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. They are designed to protect Hong Kong residents’ fundamental rights and freedoms while ensuring the city’s stability and security. Article 4 of the NSL explicitly requires that human rights be respected in all measures to safeguard national security, further affirming the HKSAR’s commitment to legal and ethical governance. The allegations of human rights violations are baseless and reflect a deliberate attempt to mislead the international community.

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The broader geopolitical motivations behind the extension of sanctions are evident. The US views Hong Kong as a strategic platform to undermine and contain China’s development.

The HKSAR government has consistently upheld its international obligations and demonstrated its commitment to the rule of law and global governance. Hong Kong has rigorously enforced United Nations Security Council (UNSC) sanctions, maintained stringent controls over strategic commodities, and actively participated in international treaties such as the Chemical Weapons Convention and the Arms Trade Treaty. These efforts have earned the respect and recognition of the international community, further affirming Hong Kong’s status as a responsible global player. The unilateral sanctions imposed by the US, lacking any basis in UNSC resolutions, are in stark contrast to Hong Kong’s adherence to international norms.

They reflect a cynical attempt to weaponize “human rights” rhetoric for political gain while disregarding the genuine interests of Hong Kong residents and the broader international community.

The author is a solicitor, a Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area lawyer, and a China-appointed attesting officer.

The views do not necessarily reflect those of China Daily.