Hong Kong security chief labels vague "soft resistance" as greatest national threat

Hong Kong’s security chief, Chris Tang, told Commercial Radio that “soft resistance” is the most pernicious threat to the city’s national security, surpassing foreign meddling, terrorism, and independence-seeking fugitives. He emphasized that its danger lies in its subtlety, noting that it may be perceived as harmless or even well-intentioned. Tang did not provide specific instances, but said illegal actions must be dealt with, while non-illegal conduct should be scrutinized for intent.

The phrase originated in a 2021 speech by Luo Huining, then director of Beijing’s liaison office, and has since been used by officials like commentator Lau Siu-kai to describe ideological work such as spreading disinformation or attacking the government. At a recent graduation ceremony, national security police chief Andrew Kan warned new officers that these challenges are increasingly hidden within society. The warning follows Hong Kong’s 2020 national security law, which criminalises a broad range of activities and has led to numerous arrests and the disappearance of civil-society groups.