Reflections on the Meaning of the Right to Vote in Hong Kong

Abstract

If rights are interpreted purposively, what is the purpose of the right to vote in Hong Kong? It means more than casting a ballot or being a candidate in elections. The right to vote serves to enable permanent residents to participate meaningfully in the electoral process and public affairs more generally. Meaningful participation implies that voters are informed of the relevant issues. Hong Kong underwent major reforms in its electoral systems in 2021. In the eyes of the public, the reforms had the effect of rendering the right to vote less meaningful, if not meaningless. In the future, the central and regional governments need to restore people’s confidence in the elections and bring back vibrancy to the right to vote in Hong Kong.