The Politics of Policing in Greater China

Abstract

The Hong Kong police force can be seen as a professional and efficient disciplinary force highly adaptive and responsive to the rapidly changing socio-political circumstances. Its responses to the politicization of Hong Kong, the rise of localist politics and protests, the emergence of some home-grown terrorists, and the increase in cross-border crime have demonstrated the efficiency and effectiveness in maintaining the law and order in Hong Kong. The Hong Kong police have been operating under a well-established and solid system of internal and external checks and balances on the exercise of police power, including the Complaints Against Police Office, Independent Police Complaints Council, Independent Commission Against Corruption and the mass media. Under these circumstances, the police in Hong Kong can strike a balance between professionalism in their operation and accountability to the public.