Why a million Hong Kongers protested against extradition law

Synopsis

On Sunday, an estimated 1 million people came out onto the streets of Hong Kong to protest against a proposed extradition law. This law would allow the mainland Chinese government to request the extradition of individuals accused of crimes from Hong Kong to China. If the 1 million figure is accurate, these protests represent the largest demonstrations in Hong Kong since its handover to China in 1997. Protests continued into the early hours of Monday, with reports of violent clashes and several arrests amid claims of police heavy-handedness. The protests reflect a deep mistrust among Hong Kong residents towards the mainland political and legal system, particularly concerning clauses in the law that could affect not only residents but also visitors. Business organizations, including foreign entities, express strong opposition to the law, fearing it could be misused against those involved in business disputes or dissenting against Beijing's economic policies. Chinese President Xi Jinping shows no signs of yielding to public discontent, suggesting the law is likely to pass, further escalating tensions in Hong Kong.