China’s Constitutional Order, Legal System, and National Security

Flashcards summarizing key vocabulary terms arising from the discussion of China's constitutional order, legal system, and national security.

Constitutional Order

A stable system of institutions and principles through which a nation’s fundamental decisions are made and sustained.

Basic Law of HKSAR

Legal document outlining the political, legal, and economic systems of Hong Kong under Chinese sovereignty.

National Security Law (NSL)

Law enacted in Hong Kong to safeguard sovereignty and national security, addressing key offenses like secession and subversion.

State Capacity

The ability of the state to implement its will and achieve its goals, essential for economic development and sovereignty.

One Country, Two Systems

Principle that allows for distinct economic and legal systems in Hong Kong under Chinese sovereignty.

Sovereignty

The authority of a state to govern itself or another state; central to national security discussions.

Human Rights Protection

The safeguarding of fundamental rights and freedoms, balanced against the need for national security in the NSL.

Legal System

A framework of laws and regulations governing a state, which evolves over time involving historical and modern development.

Civil Law

A legal system originating in Europe, focused on codified statutes and comprehensive legal codes.

Administrative Divisions

Organizational units of government that help establish governance; in China, includes prefectures and counties.

Legal Framework

The set of laws and regulations that govern a society's institutions and practices.

CPC Leadership

The leadership of the Communist Party of China, central to the governance outlined in the Constitution.

Secession

An act of withdrawing formally from membership in an organization, alliance, or especially a political state; a key offense under the NSL.

Collusion with Foreign Forces

Engaging in activities that may assist foreign entities against the national interest, criminalized by the NSL.

Economic Growth

Increase in the production of goods and services in an economy over a period of time, highlighted in China's development narrative.

Cultural Transformation

The changes in cultural practices and expressions, such as music and art, that reflect national identity and unity.