Hong Kong politics will heat up as lockdown eases

Subject

Hong Kong politics as the COVID-19 lockdown eases.

Significance

During the COVID-19 lockdown, Beijing's representatives in Hong Kong have become more outspoken, and prominent opposition figures have been arrested.

Impacts

• Several developments already in view could easily reignite violence, including a law banning ‘misuse’ of China’s national anthem.
• Other cities and economies will draw lessons from Hong Kong’s success in tackling COVID-19.
• Beijing's rhetoric on Hong Kong will increase in frequency and intensity, in step with its more hawkish statements on international affairs.