Editorial | Legal system proves to be linchpin of city’s superconnector role
Legal Week offers Hong Kong an opportunity to collaborate with professionals from mainland China and overseas
The value of Hong Kong’s legal system in providing an attractive environment for business has long been recognised. But it has never been more important than now, as the city seeks to assert its role as China’s “superconnector” to the world. Close collaboration with legal professionals from the mainland and overseas is required if progress is to be made.
A gathering of professionals from almost 50 jurisdictions last week provided a welcome opportunity to discuss the latest developments. Legal Week, organised by the Department of Justice, tackled topics ranging from alternative dispute resolution to artificial intelligence. The event forms part of the city’s efforts to establish itself as an international legal hub.
The five days of forums created a platform for timely reminders of the significance of the legal system and the principles that underpin it. Cui Jianchun, head of the foreign ministry’s office in Hong Kong, hailed the strength and resilience of the system. He said it was essential to national modernisation and China was “counting on it”.
Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu spoke of the unique nature of Hong Kong’s bilingual system, the only one in China to use common law. Secretary for Justice Paul Lam Ting-kwok highlighted the city’s potential to be a “critical hub” for legal and economic collaboration.
Hong Kong is well positioned but cannot rest on its laurels. Many challenges lie ahead. Chief Justice Andrew Cheung Kui-nung warned that any compromise of judicial independence would undermine public confidence in the rule of law. He stressed the importance of the judiciary being accessible, transparent and accountable and underlined the role of judges in guarding against any arbitrary or disproportionate restrictions on rights.
The top judge also urged Hong Kong to nurture local legal talent. He is right to say that the strength of the legal profession ultimately depends on the quality of the next generation of lawyers. One step towards improving standards is the launch of an academy to train international legal professionals. A committee comprising 17 experts was formed in October to cultivate expertise in the field. Perceptions of Hong Kong’s legal system have, in recent years, been shaped by political developments and national security laws. Concerns remain that the United States may impose sanctions on the city’s judges.
