Joe Chow, the new Police Commissioner of Hong Kong, has made it clear that safeguarding national security is his top priority. Chow, who took office in April 2025, brings extensive experience to the role, having joined the police force in 1995. He is particularly known for leading the police siege of Hong Kong’s Polytechnic University in November 2019, a pivotal moment during the mass protests that resulted in 1,377 arrests. This operation marked one of the most violent confrontations between protesters and police in recent history.
National security is a critical issue for Hong Kong, especially given its unique relationship with mainland China. The city operates under the “one country, two systems” framework, which grants it a degree of autonomy but also requires it to align with Beijing’s broader security interests. Chow’s emphasis on national security reflects the Hong Kong government’s commitment to maintaining stability and preventing actions that could threaten China’s sovereignty.
The police force plays a central role in enforcing Hong Kong’s national security law, which was enacted in 2020. This law grants authorities significant powers to address acts of secession, subversion, terrorism, and collusion with foreign forces. Under these provisions, the government has placed bounties on 19 overseas activists since 2023, including UK-based Tony Chung and Carmen Lau, and Australia-based Ted Hui and Kevin Yam. These bounties aim to deter dissent and encourage informants to report on individuals perceived as threats to national security.
However, these measures have raised concerns about civil liberties and human rights. Critics argue that the broad powers granted under the national security law could be used to suppress legitimate political expression. Balancing security with individual freedoms remains a significant challenge for the police force.
US sanctions on Hong Kong officials, including Chow’s predecessor, add another layer of complexity. These sanctions were imposed in response to Beijing’s crackdown on dissent in Hong Kong. While Chow has stated that he is not worried about the sanctions, they could strain Hong Kong’s relationship with the US and impact international perceptions of the city’s autonomy.
Public perception of the police force is mixed. Some view the force as essential for maintaining order, while others see it as an instrument of political repression. Media coverage plays a crucial role in shaping these views, but journalists face challenges in reporting on security issues due to the sensitive nature of the topic. Transparent and accurate reporting is vital for maintaining public trust in the police and the government.
Looking ahead, the police force must navigate a complex landscape of security threats, civil unrest, and international scrutiny. Effective communication, ethical enforcement of laws, and a commitment to upholding justice will be key to ensuring Hong Kong’s stability and safeguarding its future.
