Basic Principles of the National Security Law

The National Security Law (NSL), officially the Law of the People’s Republic of China on Safeguarding National Security in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, covers aspects such as the protection of human rights, the rule of law, and privacy protection.


Protection of Human Rights Principle (Article 4 of NSL)

Respects and protects Hong Kong people’s rights and freedoms under the Basic Law as well as the provisions of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.

The Rule of Law Principle (Article 5 of NSL)

Provides specific principles embodied in the criminal justice field, fully demonstrating the value of the rule of law.

1. Principle of Legality: Conviction and sentencing of crimes should be well defined in the law.

2. Presumption of Innocence: A person is presumed innocent until convicted by a judicial body.

3. Right to a Fair Trial: The rights of the defence, such as the right to be informed of and to investigate the facts and evidence of a case, shall be protected.

4. The Rule Against Double Jeopardy: No one shall be liable to be tried again for an offence for which he or she has already been finally convicted or acquitted in judicial proceedings.

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