What level of autonomy does the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region enjoy under the Basic Law?

The level of autonomy that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) enjoys under the Basic Law is characterized as a high degree of autonomy. This framework was established to ensure that Hong Kong can maintain its distinct legal and economic system for 50 years following the 1997 handover from British to Chinese sovereignty.

The Basic Law stipulates that Hong Kong has its own legislative, executive, and judicial authorities and can operate with its own set of laws, reflecting its unique cultural, social, and economic context. This autonomy allows the HKSAR to manage most of its affairs independently, aside from foreign affairs and defense, which are the responsibility of the central government in Beijing.

The phrasing of "a high degree of autonomy" is significant because it denotes that while Hong Kong functions independently in many respects, it is not fully sovereign. The central government retains ultimate authority over matters involving national defense and foreign affairs, as well as the power to interpret the Basic Law in certain situations. This balance aims to maintain stability and order while allowing Hong Kong to enjoy its distinct identity and governance structure.

This understanding particularly contrasts with the other options, which either imply complete independence, which Hong Kong does not possess, or suggest more limited frameworks that do not