behind Hong Kong, the megacity
one country, two systems: what lies ahead for the innovative island
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The Capitalist hub nestled on the edge of Communist mainland China.
Hong Kong prides itself on its distinctively free and democratic identity, which divides it from mainland China.
Hong Kong Chinese are struggling to come to terms with the reality that their future is inextricably bound with China. They are experiencing a crisis of identity and a sense of displacement. Yet, there may be no alternative: China is the future of Hong Kong. In fact... China is going to play a key role in more than just Hong Kong's future...
The Capitalist hub nestled on the edge of Communist mainland China.
“many thought the one country, two systems’ framework... would eventually allow the introduction of democracy. Now they are realising that it came with only a 50-year guarantee – and they think “we are going to be one country, one system before 2047” Suzanne Pepper
Hong Kong, officially known as 'Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China'... is an autonomous region on the southern coast of China. The financial hub is geographically enclosed by the Pearl River Delta and South China Sea. Hong Kong is known for its expansive skyline and deep natural harbour. With a land mass of 1,104 km2 and a population of over seven million people, this megacity is one of the most densely populated areas in the world.
The foundation of Hong Kong is money, and over the years the city has become associated with fabulous wealth. In the 1980’s the capitalist island poured prosperity and entrepreneurial expertise into Communist China. It is difficult to imagine how the economy of the People’s Republic of China could have taken off without Hong Kong. This has given the former ‘colony’ a reputation of unfettered materialism. However, the recent pro-democracy and freedom protests in Hong Kong show that many of it’s citizens believe and care a lot more about the island's identity than the money it makes.
Hong Kongers have shown remarkable resilience in the past. They now face the prospect of turbulent regional and global development. They face the threat of becoming “just another” Chinese city. If they lose a large part of the freedom that makes Hong Kong and it’s surrounding areas stand apart from the mainland, it will take away and push back the cities innovative and unique developments. Essentially removing the heart of one of the world's most impressive and international cities.