Retrocession of Hong Kong

Abstract

The People's Republic of China and Great Britain have set a precedent in negotiating the peaceful return of Hong Kong's sovereignty and administration to China. This thesis examines the political, economic and social forces operating within China, Hong Kong and Great Britain to determine the future success of the Joint Declaration in maintaining Hong Kong's stability and economic prosperity. It also investigates the commitment of all three parties to the future success of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) . Although optimistic about the success of the Hong Kong SAR, it recognizes the need for continued pragmatism and restraint by Beijing and Hong Kong. The Hong Kong people must be committed to maintaining the SAR's independence by avoiding any radical changes in their political or social systems that would threaten their prosperity and stability.