'Booing' of Chinese National Anthem Soon May Be Illegal in Hong Kong
A new law banning any “insult” to China’s national anthem took effect last month.
Hong Kong’s leader has suggested the law could soon be enforced there in the former British territory.
Local media reported that the law could be used to target people who attend European football matches. In recent years, some football fans have shouted, booed or made other noises when China’s national anthem is played. Most people act respectfully when the music is played.
Wang Guangya recently retired as China’s representative to Hong Kong. He said the anthem law could be dealt with in a way that meets the requirements of the city’s legal system, which is different from other parts of the country.
"The most important thing is this: Any citizen of this country should show respect to their country, its national anthem, and its national flag," he said.
Wang added that “this is a fundamental requirement, which I hope everyone agrees with.”
Recently, Hong Kong Democratic Party chairman Wu Chi-wai spoke about the issue. He said the booing of the national anthem at football matches was a way for the people of Hong Kong to express their dissatisfaction with the government in Beijing. He also said that enforcing the anthem law could backfire.
“They seem to think that this can be achieved simply by passing legislation requiring people to respect the national anthem,” he said.
Wu added, “If they want people to show genuine respect, then they shouldn’t be encouraging them to fake it.”
