| MACAU Macau Special Administrative Region Aomen Tebie Xingzhengqu (Chinese); Regiao Administrativa Especial de Macau (Portuguese) (Special Administrative Region of China) Joined United Nations: 24 October 1945 Human Rights as assured by their constitution Click here Updated 04/07/10 |
| CAPITAL |
| POPULATION |
| CHIEF OF STATE |
| SELECTION PROCESS |
Macau
559,846 (July 2009 est.)
Hu Jintao
President of China
since 15 March 2003
President of China
since 15 March 2003
President and vice president elected by National People's
Congress for a five-year term (eligible for a second term);
elections last held 15-17 March 2008
Next scheduled election: mid-March 2013
Congress for a five-year term (eligible for a second term);
elections last held 15-17 March 2008
Next scheduled election: mid-March 2013
HEAD OF GOVERNMENT
SELECTION PROCESS
Fernando Chui Sai-on
Chief Executive
since 20 December 2009
Chief Executive
since 20 December 2009
Chief executive chosen by a 300-member Election Committee for
a five-year term (eligible for a second term); election last held 26
July 2009
Next scheduled election: July 2014
a five-year term (eligible for a second term); election last held 26
July 2009
Next scheduled election: July 2014
| DECLARATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS |
| ETHNIC GROUPS |
Chinese 95.7%, Macanese (mixed Portuguese and Asian ancestry) 1%, other 3.3% (2001 census)
| RELIGIONS |
Buddhist 50%, Roman Catholic 15%, none and other 35% (1997 est.)
| GOVERNMENT STRUCTURE |
Limited democracy as a special administrative region of China - 0 provinces, Legal system is based on based on Portuguese civil
law system
Executive: President elected by China's National People's Congress for a five-year term, eligible for a second term; elections last
held 15-17 March 2008 (next to be held in mid-March 2013) Chief Executive chosen by a 300-member Election Committee for a
five-year term, eligible for a second term; election last held 26 July 2009 (next to be held on in July 2014)
Legislative: unicameral Legislative Assembly (29 seats; 12 elected by popular vote, 10 by indirect vote, and 7 appointed
by the chief executive; members serve four-year terms)
elections: Senate - last held 20 September 2009 (next to be held in September 2010)
Judicial: Court of Final Appeal in Macau Special Administrative Region
law system
Executive: President elected by China's National People's Congress for a five-year term, eligible for a second term; elections last
held 15-17 March 2008 (next to be held in mid-March 2013) Chief Executive chosen by a 300-member Election Committee for a
five-year term, eligible for a second term; election last held 26 July 2009 (next to be held on in July 2014)
Legislative: unicameral Legislative Assembly (29 seats; 12 elected by popular vote, 10 by indirect vote, and 7 appointed
by the chief executive; members serve four-year terms)
elections: Senate - last held 20 September 2009 (next to be held in September 2010)
Judicial: Court of Final Appeal in Macau Special Administrative Region
| LANGUAGES |
Cantonese 87.9%, Hokkien 4.4%, Mandarin 1.6%, other Chinese dialects 3.1%, other 3% (2001 census)
| BRIEF HISTORY |
The human history of Macau stretches back up to 6,000 years, and includes many different and diverse civilisations and
periods of existence. Evidence of Chinese culture dating back 4,000 to 6,000 years has been discovered on the Macau
Peninsula and dating back 5,000 years on Coloane Island. Historical records show that what was later known as Macau
was part of Panyu County, Nanhai District, Guangdong Province, under the Qin empire (221–206 BC). During the Jin
Dynasty (265-420), the area was part of Dongguan County and later alternated under the control of Nanhai and
Dongguan. In 1152 (during the Song Dynasty, 960–1279), it was identified as administratively part of the new Xiangshan
County. Since at least the 5th century, merchant ships traveling between Southeast Asia and Guangzhou used Haojingao
as a way stop for refuge, fresh water, and food. Members of the southern Song Dynasty and some 50,000 followers
were the first recorded inhabitants of the area, seeking refuge in Macau from invading Mongols in 1277. Mong Há has
long been the center of Chinese life in Macau and the site of what may be the region's oldest temple, a shrine devoted to
the Buddhist Guanyin (Goddess of Mercy). The Hoklo Boat people were the first to show commercial interest in Macau
as a trading center for the southern provinces. During the Ming Dynasty (1368–1643), fishermen migrated to Macau from
various parts of Guangdong and Fujian provinces and built the A-Ma Temple in which they prayed for safety on the sea.
Macau did not develop as a major settlement until the Portuguese arrived in the 16th century. Having established
themselves at Goa in 1510 and Malacca in 1511, the first Portuguese arrived on the China coast in 1513 aboard a hired
junk sailing from Malacca. They landed on Lintin Island in the Zhujiang (Pearl River) estuary and erected a stone marker
claiming the island for the king of Portugal. When Portuguese fleets arrived in the vicinity of Haojing'ao in 1517 and 1518,
Chinese officials expressed displeasure over violations of China's sovereignty. Portuguese adventurers were forcibly
expelled from along the coast of Guangdong in 1521. Following a ship wreck in 1536, Portuguese traders were allowed
to moor at Haojingao, however. Most historians note the date of the permanent presence of the Portuguese in Macau as
1553, the year they started establishing on-shore trading depots there. The Portuguese set up bases of operations there
for trade with China, especially Guangzhou, and for trade with Japan. Both Portuguese and Chinese merchants flocked to
Macau, and it quickly became an important node in the development of Portugal's trade with India, southern China,
Japan, and Southeast Asia. Lisbon obtained a leasehold for Macau in return for tribute paid to Beijing in 1557, and during
that same year, established a walled village there. Ground rent payments began in 1573. In 1582 a land lease was signed,
and annual rent was paid to Xiangshan County. In 1586 Macau became a self-governing city. In 1605 Dutch attacks led
the Portuguese to build a city wall without China's permission. China officially established Macau as a foreign-trade port in
1685. After the House of Braganza regained control of Portugal from the Spanish Habsburgs in 1640, Macau was
granted the official title of Cidade do (Santo) Nome de Deus de Macau, Não há outra mais Leal, which means City of the
(Holy) Name of God of Macau, "There is none more Loyal" never having recognized Spanish authority..The first
Portuguese Governor of Macau was appointed to Macau in 1680, but the Chinese continued to assert their authority,
collecting land and customs taxes. During the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries, Macau served as an important center for
Portuguese trade with China (primarily with Guangzhou), Japan, the Philippines, mainland and island Southeast Asia, Goa,
and Mexico during the Ming (1368–1643) and Qing (1644–1911) dynasties. The decline of Lisbon's world trade system
in the mid-17th century ended Macao's role as a major trade entrepôt. The development of Hong Kong by the British and
the opening of treaty ports along the China coast after 1842 further overshadowed the commercial importance of Macau.
Until 20 April 1844, Macau was under the jurisdiction of Portugal's Indian colonies, the so-called “Estado português da
India” (Portuguese State of India), but after this date, it, along with East Timor, was accorded recognition by Lisbon (but
not by Beijing) as an overseas province of Portugal. The Treaty of Peace, Amity, and Commerce between China and the
United States (also known as the Treaty of Mong Há) was signed in a temple in Macau on 3 July 1844. The temple was
used by a Chinese judicial administrator, who also oversaw matters concerning foreigners, and was located in the village
of Mong Há. The Templo de Kun Iam was the site where, on July 3, 1844, the treaty of Wangxia (named after the village
of Mong Ha where the temple was located) was signed by representatives of the United States and China. This marked
the official beginning of Sino-US relations. Portugal continued to pay rent to China until 1849, when the Portuguese
abolished the Chinese customs house and declared Macau's “independence”, a year which also saw Chinese retaliation..
Macau enjoyed a brief period of economic prosperity during World War II as the only neutral port in South China, after
the Japanese occupied Guangzhou (Canton) and Hong Kong. In 1943, Japan created a virtual protectorate over Macau.
Japanese domination ended in August 1945. When the Chinese communists came to power in 1949, they declared the
Protocol of Lisbon to be invalid as an “unequal treaty” imposed by foreigners on China. However, Beijing was not ready
to settle the treaty question, requesting a maintenance of “the status quo” until a more appropriate time. Beijing took a
similar position on treaties relating to the Hong Kong territories of the United Kingdom. Portugal designated Macau a
separate overseas province in 1955. In 1974, following the anti-colonialist Carnation Revolution, Portugal relinquished all
colonial claims and recognized Chinese sovereignty over Macau. Portugal and the People's Republic of China established
diplomatic relations on 8 February 1979, and Beijing acknowledged Macau as “Chinese territory under Portuguese
administration.” A year later, Gen. Melo Egidio became the first governor of Macau to pay an official visit to Beijing.
Macau became the Macau Special Administrative Region (SAR) of China on 20 December 1999. China has promised
that, under its "one country, two systems" formula, China's socialist economic system will not be practiced in Macau, and
that Macau will enjoy a high degree of autonomy in all matters except foreign and defense affairs for the next 50 years
Sources : Wikipedia: History of Macau ; CIA World Factbook (select Macau)
periods of existence. Evidence of Chinese culture dating back 4,000 to 6,000 years has been discovered on the Macau
Peninsula and dating back 5,000 years on Coloane Island. Historical records show that what was later known as Macau
was part of Panyu County, Nanhai District, Guangdong Province, under the Qin empire (221–206 BC). During the Jin
Dynasty (265-420), the area was part of Dongguan County and later alternated under the control of Nanhai and
Dongguan. In 1152 (during the Song Dynasty, 960–1279), it was identified as administratively part of the new Xiangshan
County. Since at least the 5th century, merchant ships traveling between Southeast Asia and Guangzhou used Haojingao
as a way stop for refuge, fresh water, and food. Members of the southern Song Dynasty and some 50,000 followers
were the first recorded inhabitants of the area, seeking refuge in Macau from invading Mongols in 1277. Mong Há has
long been the center of Chinese life in Macau and the site of what may be the region's oldest temple, a shrine devoted to
the Buddhist Guanyin (Goddess of Mercy). The Hoklo Boat people were the first to show commercial interest in Macau
as a trading center for the southern provinces. During the Ming Dynasty (1368–1643), fishermen migrated to Macau from
various parts of Guangdong and Fujian provinces and built the A-Ma Temple in which they prayed for safety on the sea.
Macau did not develop as a major settlement until the Portuguese arrived in the 16th century. Having established
themselves at Goa in 1510 and Malacca in 1511, the first Portuguese arrived on the China coast in 1513 aboard a hired
junk sailing from Malacca. They landed on Lintin Island in the Zhujiang (Pearl River) estuary and erected a stone marker
claiming the island for the king of Portugal. When Portuguese fleets arrived in the vicinity of Haojing'ao in 1517 and 1518,
Chinese officials expressed displeasure over violations of China's sovereignty. Portuguese adventurers were forcibly
expelled from along the coast of Guangdong in 1521. Following a ship wreck in 1536, Portuguese traders were allowed
to moor at Haojingao, however. Most historians note the date of the permanent presence of the Portuguese in Macau as
1553, the year they started establishing on-shore trading depots there. The Portuguese set up bases of operations there
for trade with China, especially Guangzhou, and for trade with Japan. Both Portuguese and Chinese merchants flocked to
Macau, and it quickly became an important node in the development of Portugal's trade with India, southern China,
Japan, and Southeast Asia. Lisbon obtained a leasehold for Macau in return for tribute paid to Beijing in 1557, and during
that same year, established a walled village there. Ground rent payments began in 1573. In 1582 a land lease was signed,
and annual rent was paid to Xiangshan County. In 1586 Macau became a self-governing city. In 1605 Dutch attacks led
the Portuguese to build a city wall without China's permission. China officially established Macau as a foreign-trade port in
1685. After the House of Braganza regained control of Portugal from the Spanish Habsburgs in 1640, Macau was
granted the official title of Cidade do (Santo) Nome de Deus de Macau, Não há outra mais Leal, which means City of the
(Holy) Name of God of Macau, "There is none more Loyal" never having recognized Spanish authority..The first
Portuguese Governor of Macau was appointed to Macau in 1680, but the Chinese continued to assert their authority,
collecting land and customs taxes. During the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries, Macau served as an important center for
Portuguese trade with China (primarily with Guangzhou), Japan, the Philippines, mainland and island Southeast Asia, Goa,
and Mexico during the Ming (1368–1643) and Qing (1644–1911) dynasties. The decline of Lisbon's world trade system
in the mid-17th century ended Macao's role as a major trade entrepôt. The development of Hong Kong by the British and
the opening of treaty ports along the China coast after 1842 further overshadowed the commercial importance of Macau.
Until 20 April 1844, Macau was under the jurisdiction of Portugal's Indian colonies, the so-called “Estado português da
India” (Portuguese State of India), but after this date, it, along with East Timor, was accorded recognition by Lisbon (but
not by Beijing) as an overseas province of Portugal. The Treaty of Peace, Amity, and Commerce between China and the
United States (also known as the Treaty of Mong Há) was signed in a temple in Macau on 3 July 1844. The temple was
used by a Chinese judicial administrator, who also oversaw matters concerning foreigners, and was located in the village
of Mong Há. The Templo de Kun Iam was the site where, on July 3, 1844, the treaty of Wangxia (named after the village
of Mong Ha where the temple was located) was signed by representatives of the United States and China. This marked
the official beginning of Sino-US relations. Portugal continued to pay rent to China until 1849, when the Portuguese
abolished the Chinese customs house and declared Macau's “independence”, a year which also saw Chinese retaliation..
Macau enjoyed a brief period of economic prosperity during World War II as the only neutral port in South China, after
the Japanese occupied Guangzhou (Canton) and Hong Kong. In 1943, Japan created a virtual protectorate over Macau.
Japanese domination ended in August 1945. When the Chinese communists came to power in 1949, they declared the
Protocol of Lisbon to be invalid as an “unequal treaty” imposed by foreigners on China. However, Beijing was not ready
to settle the treaty question, requesting a maintenance of “the status quo” until a more appropriate time. Beijing took a
similar position on treaties relating to the Hong Kong territories of the United Kingdom. Portugal designated Macau a
separate overseas province in 1955. In 1974, following the anti-colonialist Carnation Revolution, Portugal relinquished all
colonial claims and recognized Chinese sovereignty over Macau. Portugal and the People's Republic of China established
diplomatic relations on 8 February 1979, and Beijing acknowledged Macau as “Chinese territory under Portuguese
administration.” A year later, Gen. Melo Egidio became the first governor of Macau to pay an official visit to Beijing.
Macau became the Macau Special Administrative Region (SAR) of China on 20 December 1999. China has promised
that, under its "one country, two systems" formula, China's socialist economic system will not be practiced in Macau, and
that Macau will enjoy a high degree of autonomy in all matters except foreign and defense affairs for the next 50 years
Sources : Wikipedia: History of Macau ; CIA World Factbook (select Macau)
| ECONOMIC OVERVIEW |
Macau's economy enjoyed strong growth in 2009 despite the global economic slowdown, largely on the back of strong
tourism and gaming sectors. After opening up its locally-controlled casino industry to foreign competition in 2001, the
territory attracted tens of billions of dollars in foreign investment, transforming Macao into the world's largest gaming
center. Macau's gaming and tourism businesses were fueled by China's decision to relax travel restrictions on Chinese
citizens wishing to visit Macau. By 2006, Macau's gaming revenue surpassed that of the Las Vegas strip, and
gaming-related taxes accounted for more than 70% of total government revenue. This city of just over 500,000 hosted
more than 21 million visitors in 2009. Almost 51% came from mainland China. Macau's traditional manufacturing industry
has virtually disappeared since the termination of the Multi-Fiber Agreement in 2005. In 2009, total exports were less
than US$1 billion, while gaming receipts were almost US$15 billion. The Closer Economic Partnership Agreement
(CEPA) between Macau and mainland China that came into effect on 1 January 2004 offers Macau-made products
tariff-free access to the mainland, nevertheless, China remains Macau's third largest goods export market, behind Hong
Kong and the United States. Macau's currency, the Pataca, is closely tied to the Hong Kong dollar, which is also freely
accepted in the territory.
tourism and gaming sectors. After opening up its locally-controlled casino industry to foreign competition in 2001, the
territory attracted tens of billions of dollars in foreign investment, transforming Macao into the world's largest gaming
center. Macau's gaming and tourism businesses were fueled by China's decision to relax travel restrictions on Chinese
citizens wishing to visit Macau. By 2006, Macau's gaming revenue surpassed that of the Las Vegas strip, and
gaming-related taxes accounted for more than 70% of total government revenue. This city of just over 500,000 hosted
more than 21 million visitors in 2009. Almost 51% came from mainland China. Macau's traditional manufacturing industry
has virtually disappeared since the termination of the Multi-Fiber Agreement in 2005. In 2009, total exports were less
than US$1 billion, while gaming receipts were almost US$15 billion. The Closer Economic Partnership Agreement
(CEPA) between Macau and mainland China that came into effect on 1 January 2004 offers Macau-made products
tariff-free access to the mainland, nevertheless, China remains Macau's third largest goods export market, behind Hong
Kong and the United States. Macau's currency, the Pataca, is closely tied to the Hong Kong dollar, which is also freely
accepted in the territory.
| POLITICAL CLIMATE |
In accordance with Article 31 of the Constitution of the People's Republic of China, Macau has Special Administrative Region
status, which provides constitutional guarantees for implementing the policy of "one country, two systems" and the
constitutional basis for enacting the Basic Law of the Macau Special Administrative Region. Although geographically part of
Guangdong Province, the Macau Special Administrative Region is directly under the authority of the central government of the
People's Republic of China in Beijing, which controls the foreign affairs and defense of Macau but otherwise grants the region "a
high degree of authority." The Basic Law took force upon handover of sovereignty from Portugal on December 20, 1999, and is
to remain in effect for fifty years (that is, until 2049).
The Chief Executive of Macau is appointed by the People's Republic of China's central government after selection by an election
committee, whose members are nominated by corporate bodies. The chief executive appears before a cabinet, the Executive
Council, of between 7 and 11 members. The term of office of the chief executive is 5 years, and no individual may serve for
more than two consecutive terms. The governor has strong policymaking and executive powers similar to those of a president.
These powers are, however, limited from above by the central government in Beijing, to whom the governor reports directly,
and from below (to a more limited extent) by the legislature.
The central government in Beijing controls the foreign affairs of Macau. The Commission of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
opened its office in Macau on 20 December 1999. A central government agency, the commission interacts with the Macau
government in matters of foreign policy. It also processes applications from foreign nations and international organizations
wishing to establish consulates or representative offices in Macau. Macau is also authorized to handle some external affairs on its
own.In June 2009 Fernando Chui declared himself the sole candidate for Macau's chief executive election. He was nominated by
286 members of the 300-member election committee, most with direct ties to Beijing. On "election" day, July 26, 282 committee
members voted for Chui (14 blank, 4 abstention) and assumed his new role as Chief executive of Macau on 20 December 2009.
Wikipedia: Politics of Macau
status, which provides constitutional guarantees for implementing the policy of "one country, two systems" and the
constitutional basis for enacting the Basic Law of the Macau Special Administrative Region. Although geographically part of
Guangdong Province, the Macau Special Administrative Region is directly under the authority of the central government of the
People's Republic of China in Beijing, which controls the foreign affairs and defense of Macau but otherwise grants the region "a
high degree of authority." The Basic Law took force upon handover of sovereignty from Portugal on December 20, 1999, and is
to remain in effect for fifty years (that is, until 2049).
The Chief Executive of Macau is appointed by the People's Republic of China's central government after selection by an election
committee, whose members are nominated by corporate bodies. The chief executive appears before a cabinet, the Executive
Council, of between 7 and 11 members. The term of office of the chief executive is 5 years, and no individual may serve for
more than two consecutive terms. The governor has strong policymaking and executive powers similar to those of a president.
These powers are, however, limited from above by the central government in Beijing, to whom the governor reports directly,
and from below (to a more limited extent) by the legislature.
The central government in Beijing controls the foreign affairs of Macau. The Commission of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
opened its office in Macau on 20 December 1999. A central government agency, the commission interacts with the Macau
government in matters of foreign policy. It also processes applications from foreign nations and international organizations
wishing to establish consulates or representative offices in Macau. Macau is also authorized to handle some external affairs on its
own.In June 2009 Fernando Chui declared himself the sole candidate for Macau's chief executive election. He was nominated by
286 members of the 300-member election committee, most with direct ties to Beijing. On "election" day, July 26, 282 committee
members voted for Chui (14 blank, 4 abstention) and assumed his new role as Chief executive of Macau on 20 December 2009.
Wikipedia: Politics of Macau
| INTERNATIONAL DISPUTES |
None reported.
| REFUGEES AND INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS (IDP) |
None reported.
| ILLICIT DRUGS |
Transshipment point for drugs going into mainland China; consumer of opiates and amphetamines
| HUMAN RIGHTS STATEMENTS, ANALYSIS AND CRITIQUES |
2009 Human Rights Report: China (includes Tibet, Hong Kong, and Macau)
Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor
2009 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices
March 11, 2010
Macau, with a population of approximately 557,400, is a Special Administrative Region (SAR) of the People's Republic of China (PRC)
and enjoys a high degree of autonomy, except in defense and foreign affairs, under the SAR's constitution the Basic Law. On July 26,
the 300-member Electoral Commission selected Fernando Chui Sai-on as chief executive (CE) in an uncontested election, and Chui took
office December 20. On September 20, in elections considered generally free and fair, voters elected 12 of the legislature's 29 members
in direct elections based on geographical constituencies; of the other 17 members of the legislature, 10 are elected indirectly, and seven
are appointed by the CE. Civilian authorities generally maintained effective control of the security forces.
The government generally respected the human rights of its citizens; however, some problems remained, most notably:
Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor
2009 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices
March 11, 2010
Macau, with a population of approximately 557,400, is a Special Administrative Region (SAR) of the People's Republic of China (PRC)
and enjoys a high degree of autonomy, except in defense and foreign affairs, under the SAR's constitution the Basic Law. On July 26,
the 300-member Electoral Commission selected Fernando Chui Sai-on as chief executive (CE) in an uncontested election, and Chui took
office December 20. On September 20, in elections considered generally free and fair, voters elected 12 of the legislature's 29 members
in direct elections based on geographical constituencies; of the other 17 members of the legislature, 10 are elected indirectly, and seven
are appointed by the CE. Civilian authorities generally maintained effective control of the security forces.
The government generally respected the human rights of its citizens; however, some problems remained, most notably:
- limits on citizens' ability to change their government,
- reports of official corruption,
- trafficking in persons.
21 November 2008
COMMITTEE AGAINST TORTURE
Forty-first session Geneva, 3-21 November 2008
CONSIDERATION OF REPORTS SUBMITTED BY STATES PARTIES UNDER ARTICLE 19 OF THE CONVENTION
Concluding observations of the Committee against Torture
Macao Special Administrative Region
A. Introduction
1. The Committee against Torture (“the Committee”) considered the fourth periodic report of China with respect to the Macao Special
Administrative Region (Macao SAR) (CAT/C/MAC/4) at its 844th and 846th meetings, held on 7 and 10 November 2008 (CAT/C/SR.
844 and 846), and adopted, at its 864th meeting on 21 November 2008 (CAT/C/SR.860), the following concluding observations.
B. Positive aspects
2. The Committee welcomes the submission of the report of Macao SAR, included in the fourth periodic report of the State party China.
It also welcomes the written replies to the list of issues (CAT/C/MAC/Q/4/Add.1) which provided additional information on the
legislative, administrative, judicial and other measures taken for the implementation of the Convention.
C. Main issues of concerns and recommendations
Definition and criminalization of torture
4. The Committee takes note of the Macao SAR’s explanation with respect to the term “public official” contained in article 234 read in
conjunction with article 235 of the Criminal Code. Nonetheless, the Committee is concerned that the restriction mentioned in article 234
(1) of the Criminal Code regarding the scope of the crime to the mentioned public officials is not fully compliant with the definition of
torture contained in article 1 (1) of the Convention.
The Macao SAR should adopt a definition of the term “public official” fully in line with article 1 (1) of the Convention, so as to
include all acts inflicted by or at the instigation of or with the consent or acquiescence of all public officials or other persons acting in an
official capacity. The Committee further recommends that Macao SAR consider using a wording of the definition of torture similar to
that used in the Convention so as to ensure that all elements contained in article 1, including discrimination of any kind, are covered in
the definition.
Click here to read more »
COMMITTEE AGAINST TORTURE
Forty-first session Geneva, 3-21 November 2008
CONSIDERATION OF REPORTS SUBMITTED BY STATES PARTIES UNDER ARTICLE 19 OF THE CONVENTION
Concluding observations of the Committee against Torture
Macao Special Administrative Region
A. Introduction
1. The Committee against Torture (“the Committee”) considered the fourth periodic report of China with respect to the Macao Special
Administrative Region (Macao SAR) (CAT/C/MAC/4) at its 844th and 846th meetings, held on 7 and 10 November 2008 (CAT/C/SR.
844 and 846), and adopted, at its 864th meeting on 21 November 2008 (CAT/C/SR.860), the following concluding observations.
B. Positive aspects
2. The Committee welcomes the submission of the report of Macao SAR, included in the fourth periodic report of the State party China.
It also welcomes the written replies to the list of issues (CAT/C/MAC/Q/4/Add.1) which provided additional information on the
legislative, administrative, judicial and other measures taken for the implementation of the Convention.
C. Main issues of concerns and recommendations
Definition and criminalization of torture
4. The Committee takes note of the Macao SAR’s explanation with respect to the term “public official” contained in article 234 read in
conjunction with article 235 of the Criminal Code. Nonetheless, the Committee is concerned that the restriction mentioned in article 234
(1) of the Criminal Code regarding the scope of the crime to the mentioned public officials is not fully compliant with the definition of
torture contained in article 1 (1) of the Convention.
The Macao SAR should adopt a definition of the term “public official” fully in line with article 1 (1) of the Convention, so as to
include all acts inflicted by or at the instigation of or with the consent or acquiescence of all public officials or other persons acting in an
official capacity. The Committee further recommends that Macao SAR consider using a wording of the definition of torture similar to
that used in the Convention so as to ensure that all elements contained in article 1, including discrimination of any kind, are covered in
the definition.
Click here to read more »
China's rating in Web freedom
Thursday, 02 April 2009
Macau Daily Times
China's "sophisticated and multi-layered" efforts to censor and control the Internet earned it a "not free" rating by a US rights group in a
report released yesterday in Washington.
Freedom House, which examined web freedom issues in 15 countries, listed Cuba, Iran and Tunisia as three other nations it considered
"not free" due to government control of online activity.
Seven countries studied -- Egypt, India, Georgia, Kenya, Malaysia, Russia and Turkey -- were considered "partly free" while four others --
Brazil, Britain, Estonia and South Africa -- were labeled "free."
Freedom House, which monitors political rights and civil liberties around the globe, said the rights of Internet users were increasingly at
risk as governments expanded their ability to control online activity.
"More than a billion people look to the Internet and mobile phones to provide a new freedom frontier, where they can exercise their right to
freedom of expression without repercussion," Freedom House executive director Jennifer Windsor said in a statement.
"But as access grows, more governments are employing diverse and sophisticated methods to monitor, censor and punish Internet users."
In its report, "Freedom on the Net," to be formally released later Wednesday at a conference of bloggers in Berlin, Freedom House
evaluated the 15 countries based on barriers to Internet access, limitations on content and violations of users' rights.
The Washington-based group said Cuba received the lowest score in the study.
"Cuba is one of the world's most repressive environments for Internet freedom, despite a slight relaxation of restrictions on computer and
mobile phone sales in 2008," it said.
"There is almost no access to Internet applications other than e-mail and surveillance is extensive. Cuba is one of the few countries with
laws and regulations explicitly restricting and outlawing certain online activities."
Freedom House also said that China and Cuba were tied for curbing the most users' rights.
China has the world's most Internet users, an estimated 300 million, but "also has the world's most highly-developed censorship apparatus,"
it said.
The report cited "sophisticated and multilayered system" used by Chinese authorities to censor, monitor and control Internet and mobile
telephone activities.
It also mentioned the "hundreds of thousands" of people authorities and private providers employ to "monitor, censor and manipulate online
content."
But "due to the egalitarian nature and technical flexibility of the Internet, the online environment remains more free than traditional media,"
Freedom House said.
Click here to read more »
Thursday, 02 April 2009
Macau Daily Times
China's "sophisticated and multi-layered" efforts to censor and control the Internet earned it a "not free" rating by a US rights group in a
report released yesterday in Washington.
Freedom House, which examined web freedom issues in 15 countries, listed Cuba, Iran and Tunisia as three other nations it considered
"not free" due to government control of online activity.
Seven countries studied -- Egypt, India, Georgia, Kenya, Malaysia, Russia and Turkey -- were considered "partly free" while four others --
Brazil, Britain, Estonia and South Africa -- were labeled "free."
Freedom House, which monitors political rights and civil liberties around the globe, said the rights of Internet users were increasingly at
risk as governments expanded their ability to control online activity.
"More than a billion people look to the Internet and mobile phones to provide a new freedom frontier, where they can exercise their right to
freedom of expression without repercussion," Freedom House executive director Jennifer Windsor said in a statement.
"But as access grows, more governments are employing diverse and sophisticated methods to monitor, censor and punish Internet users."
In its report, "Freedom on the Net," to be formally released later Wednesday at a conference of bloggers in Berlin, Freedom House
evaluated the 15 countries based on barriers to Internet access, limitations on content and violations of users' rights.
The Washington-based group said Cuba received the lowest score in the study.
"Cuba is one of the world's most repressive environments for Internet freedom, despite a slight relaxation of restrictions on computer and
mobile phone sales in 2008," it said.
"There is almost no access to Internet applications other than e-mail and surveillance is extensive. Cuba is one of the few countries with
laws and regulations explicitly restricting and outlawing certain online activities."
Freedom House also said that China and Cuba were tied for curbing the most users' rights.
China has the world's most Internet users, an estimated 300 million, but "also has the world's most highly-developed censorship apparatus,"
it said.
The report cited "sophisticated and multilayered system" used by Chinese authorities to censor, monitor and control Internet and mobile
telephone activities.
It also mentioned the "hundreds of thousands" of people authorities and private providers employ to "monitor, censor and manipulate online
content."
But "due to the egalitarian nature and technical flexibility of the Internet, the online environment remains more free than traditional media,"
Freedom House said.
Click here to read more »
Macao national security law threatens human rights
2 March 2009
A bill passed by the legislature in the Macao Special Administrative Region on Wednesday 25 February could potentially be misused to
abuse the rights of the territory's residents.
The National Security Bill, which now becomes law and covers acts of sedition, secession, subversion and treason against the Central
People's Government of China, was passed during the plenary session of the Legislative Assembly of the Macao Special Administrative
Region. Many terms in the law are not clearly defined.
"The National Security Law has vague and broad provisions that could be used to imprison individuals merely for exercising their rights
to freedom of expression and association," said Roseann Rife, Amnesty International's Asia-Pacific Programme Deputy Director.
The law's Article 3 deals with subversion. In the article there is no definition of the term "other grave illegal acts". This means the law
could be used to punish non-violent demonstrations or strikes that are interpreted as "attempting to overthrow the Central People's
Government" or "restrict its functions". This would criminalize peaceful expression of opinion on issues the government considers
sensitive.
The broad scope of Article 4 fails to limit the crime of sedition to clear and serious offences, such as violent acts to persons or property.
This allows the authorities to misuse the law to criminalize thoughts in books, articles or public speeches, which in turn could effect
press freedom and limit open discussion on politically-sensitive topics.
Article 5: theft of state secrets, allows the introduction to Macao of the extensive, vague, and retroactive state secrets system used in
mainland China. Numerous people have already been intimidated, detained and punished under this system in the mainland for peacefully
exercising free speech or association.
The plenary of the legislature adopted the bill in principle on 5 January, following an unreasonably short public consultation period of 40
days during October and November 2008.
Click here to read more »
2 March 2009
A bill passed by the legislature in the Macao Special Administrative Region on Wednesday 25 February could potentially be misused to
abuse the rights of the territory's residents.
The National Security Bill, which now becomes law and covers acts of sedition, secession, subversion and treason against the Central
People's Government of China, was passed during the plenary session of the Legislative Assembly of the Macao Special Administrative
Region. Many terms in the law are not clearly defined.
"The National Security Law has vague and broad provisions that could be used to imprison individuals merely for exercising their rights
to freedom of expression and association," said Roseann Rife, Amnesty International's Asia-Pacific Programme Deputy Director.
The law's Article 3 deals with subversion. In the article there is no definition of the term "other grave illegal acts". This means the law
could be used to punish non-violent demonstrations or strikes that are interpreted as "attempting to overthrow the Central People's
Government" or "restrict its functions". This would criminalize peaceful expression of opinion on issues the government considers
sensitive.
The broad scope of Article 4 fails to limit the crime of sedition to clear and serious offences, such as violent acts to persons or property.
This allows the authorities to misuse the law to criminalize thoughts in books, articles or public speeches, which in turn could effect
press freedom and limit open discussion on politically-sensitive topics.
Article 5: theft of state secrets, allows the introduction to Macao of the extensive, vague, and retroactive state secrets system used in
mainland China. Numerous people have already been intimidated, detained and punished under this system in the mainland for peacefully
exercising free speech or association.
The plenary of the legislature adopted the bill in principle on 5 January, following an unreasonably short public consultation period of 40
days during October and November 2008.
Click here to read more »
China: New Restrictions Target Media
Government Curbs Local News Assistants, Threatens ‘Blacklist’
March 18, 2009
(New York) - New Chinese government restrictions on news assistants of foreign correspondents and the creation of a Chinese journalist
"blacklist" are major setbacks for media freedom in China, Human Rights Watch said today.
On February 13, 2009, the government issued a code of conduct for the Chinese news assistants of foreign correspondents that threatens
dismissal and loss of accreditation for engaging in "independent reporting." The same day, the government announced it would create a
"blacklist" of Chinese journalists deemed to have engaged in "illegal reporting."
"After taking some steps forward on media freedom in 2008, the Chinese government is now stepping backwards," said Sophie
Richardson, Asia advocacy director at Human Rights Watch. "Granting greater freedom to foreign correspondents and then increasing the
constraints on their crucial Chinese assistants can't be considered progress."
Human Rights Watch said that the Chinese government's actions cast fresh doubt on its claims that the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games
resulted in greater development of human rights in China, particularly media freedom. At the United Nations Universal Periodic Review of
China's human rights record in Geneva in February 2009, several countries raised concerns about abuses of Chinese and foreign journalists
in China; government officials denied the existence of such abuses and noted that China's constitution "explicitly provides that citizens enjoy
freedom of speech and of the press."
Human Rights Watch is also concerned about the Chinese government's announcement on February 6, 2009, that Hong Kong and Macau
reporters must apply to central government liaison offices for a temporary press card prior to every reporting trip they make to mainland
China. Under Olympics-related temporary regulations, journalists from Hong Kong and Macau enjoyed the same freedoms as other foreign
journalists; the recent announcement constitutes a return to the pre-Olympics constraints on reporters from these areas even though they
are citizens of the People's Republic of China. The Hong Kong Journalists Association has expressed concern about the impact of the new
reporting permit system on media freedom and on Hong Kong and Macau media's ability to respond quickly to breaking news stories on the
mainland (http://www.hkja.org.hk/portal/Site.aspx?id=A1-765&lang=en-US ).
Click here to read more »
Government Curbs Local News Assistants, Threatens ‘Blacklist’
March 18, 2009
(New York) - New Chinese government restrictions on news assistants of foreign correspondents and the creation of a Chinese journalist
"blacklist" are major setbacks for media freedom in China, Human Rights Watch said today.
On February 13, 2009, the government issued a code of conduct for the Chinese news assistants of foreign correspondents that threatens
dismissal and loss of accreditation for engaging in "independent reporting." The same day, the government announced it would create a
"blacklist" of Chinese journalists deemed to have engaged in "illegal reporting."
"After taking some steps forward on media freedom in 2008, the Chinese government is now stepping backwards," said Sophie
Richardson, Asia advocacy director at Human Rights Watch. "Granting greater freedom to foreign correspondents and then increasing the
constraints on their crucial Chinese assistants can't be considered progress."
Human Rights Watch said that the Chinese government's actions cast fresh doubt on its claims that the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games
resulted in greater development of human rights in China, particularly media freedom. At the United Nations Universal Periodic Review of
China's human rights record in Geneva in February 2009, several countries raised concerns about abuses of Chinese and foreign journalists
in China; government officials denied the existence of such abuses and noted that China's constitution "explicitly provides that citizens enjoy
freedom of speech and of the press."
Human Rights Watch is also concerned about the Chinese government's announcement on February 6, 2009, that Hong Kong and Macau
reporters must apply to central government liaison offices for a temporary press card prior to every reporting trip they make to mainland
China. Under Olympics-related temporary regulations, journalists from Hong Kong and Macau enjoyed the same freedoms as other foreign
journalists; the recent announcement constitutes a return to the pre-Olympics constraints on reporters from these areas even though they
are citizens of the People's Republic of China. The Hong Kong Journalists Association has expressed concern about the impact of the new
reporting permit system on media freedom and on Hong Kong and Macau media's ability to respond quickly to breaking news stories on the
mainland (http://www.hkja.org.hk/portal/Site.aspx?id=A1-765&lang=en-US ).
Click here to read more »
Chui begins crafting 2010 Policy Address
Monday, 31 August 2009
Chief Executive designate Fernando Chui Sai On's office in Nam Van will be in operation starting today and one of its major
agendas is to prepare for the 2010 Policy Address.
The Third Chief Executive's Office is situated in the Macau Chinese Bank Building in Travessa do Padre Narciso, Nam Van, which
is just next to the Government Headquarters.
Incumbent Chief Executive Edmund Ho Hau Wah has gazetted a dispatch earlier to order all public departments to "fully assist in
the organisation and related work of the third SAR government".
Hence, the Nam Van office's daily operation is completely supported and complemented by the current SAR government.
According to the statement issued by the Third Chief Executive's Office yesterday, one of the primary tasks of Mr Chui right now
is to get ready for the 2010 Policy Address.
After discussing with Mr Ho and gaining his approval, the office will soon meet with each government department to collect
opinions.
In addition, the Chief Executive designate and his team will analyse and study all the opinions and suggestions made by the public,
associations, experts and scholars during the July election campaign, and combine them with the notions of the political platform so
as to be integrated into the policy blueprint of next year.
The statement also said that the office will need to review the current organisational structure in the administration in order to
"better meet the needs of future development".
There have been talks in society that the SAR government should increase the number of secretaries from five to seven, by splitting
social affairs and culture, and public administration and justice.
On the other hand, in regard to the 2010 Budget, Journal Va Kio reported that the first three months of the budget will be prepared
by Chief Executive Edmund Ho Hau Wah, whose term of office will expire on December 20 when Mr Chui swears in.
It was said that after the Legislative Assembly commences operation on October 16, Mr Ho will present the budget for January to
March 2010 to lawmakers "in an appropriate time" in order to ensure there is a plan of expenses in the initial operation of the next
government.
At the same time, Mr Ho will conclude his policy making performance at the legislature.
As for the rest of the budget from April to December 2010, it was reported that Mr Chui will introduce the proposal to the
Assembly in the first quarter of next year.
Click here to read more
Monday, 31 August 2009
Chief Executive designate Fernando Chui Sai On's office in Nam Van will be in operation starting today and one of its major
agendas is to prepare for the 2010 Policy Address.
The Third Chief Executive's Office is situated in the Macau Chinese Bank Building in Travessa do Padre Narciso, Nam Van, which
is just next to the Government Headquarters.
Incumbent Chief Executive Edmund Ho Hau Wah has gazetted a dispatch earlier to order all public departments to "fully assist in
the organisation and related work of the third SAR government".
Hence, the Nam Van office's daily operation is completely supported and complemented by the current SAR government.
According to the statement issued by the Third Chief Executive's Office yesterday, one of the primary tasks of Mr Chui right now
is to get ready for the 2010 Policy Address.
After discussing with Mr Ho and gaining his approval, the office will soon meet with each government department to collect
opinions.
In addition, the Chief Executive designate and his team will analyse and study all the opinions and suggestions made by the public,
associations, experts and scholars during the July election campaign, and combine them with the notions of the political platform so
as to be integrated into the policy blueprint of next year.
The statement also said that the office will need to review the current organisational structure in the administration in order to
"better meet the needs of future development".
There have been talks in society that the SAR government should increase the number of secretaries from five to seven, by splitting
social affairs and culture, and public administration and justice.
On the other hand, in regard to the 2010 Budget, Journal Va Kio reported that the first three months of the budget will be prepared
by Chief Executive Edmund Ho Hau Wah, whose term of office will expire on December 20 when Mr Chui swears in.
It was said that after the Legislative Assembly commences operation on October 16, Mr Ho will present the budget for January to
March 2010 to lawmakers "in an appropriate time" in order to ensure there is a plan of expenses in the initial operation of the next
government.
At the same time, Mr Ho will conclude his policy making performance at the legislature.
As for the rest of the budget from April to December 2010, it was reported that Mr Chui will introduce the proposal to the
Assembly in the first quarter of next year.
Click here to read more
23 February 2010
Launching Ceremony of Collected Essays of Conference “Prevention and Suppression of Corruption in the Private
Sector: Reality and Foresight” and Seminar on Corruption Prevention in the Private Sector
The CCAC held the Launching Ceremony of Collected Essays of Conference “Prevention and Suppression of Corruption in the
Private Sector: Reality and Foresight” on 23rd February at Macau Tower Convention & Entertainment Centre. The Chief Executive,
Chui Sai On, officiated the ceremony and delivered a speech, expressing the Macao SAR Government’s concern for corruption
prevention. At the same time, the CCAC also held the Seminar on Corruption Prevention in the Private Sector during which around
500 experts from various fields and representatives of political and commercial associations from Macao shared the experiences in
promoting integrity management and business ethics in the private sector with delegates of anti-corruption agencies of Mainland
China and Hong Kong and representatives of the commercial sector in Hong Kong.
Since the law Prevention and Suppression of Bribery in the Private Sector will enter into force on 1st March 2010, last year the
CCAC initiated a series of promotion of the new law, including the Conference “Prevention and Suppression of Corruption in the
Private Sector: Reality and Foresight” co-organized with the Ministry of Supervision of the People’s Republic of China and the
ICAC of Hong Kong in late November last year. During the conference, the graft-fighting agencies and representatives of private
enterprises had an in-depth discussion of the supervisory mechanism, measures on corruption prevention and integrity building. In
order to share the achievements of the conference with the general public and strengthen their awareness of integrity and law-
abidingness, the CCAC published the speeches and essays.
The Launching Ceremony was officiated by the Chief Executive, Chui Sai On, President of the Legislative Assembly, Lau Cheok
Va, Deputy Director General of the General Office of National Bureau of Corruption Prevention of China, Yu Xiancheng,
Prosecutor General of the Public Prosecutions Office, Ho Chio Meng, the Commissioner Against Corruption, Fong Man Chong,
Member of the Monitoring Committee for the Discipline of the CCAC Personnel, Paula Ling, Director of Community Relations of
the ICAC, Julie Mu Fee-Man, Director of the Research Centre for Sustainable Development Strategies, Tse Chi Wai, Deputy
Commissioner Against Corruption, Endy Tou, President of the Chinese Manufacturers' Association of Hong Kong, David Y. K.
Wong, President of Board of Directors of the Macau Chamber of Commerce, Hoi Sai Iun, Director of Macao Federation of Trade
Unions, Chan Kam Meng, and Director of Macao General Union of Neighbourhood Associations, Io Hong Meng.
In his speech, the Chief Executive said that the Legislative Assembly’s approval of the law Prevention and Suppression of Bribery
in the Private Sector in 2009 signified that prevention and combat of corruption in the private sector was a social consensus. He
recognized the CCAC’s efforts on conducting holistic promotions, assisting different sectors in formulation of integrity
management rules and its strategies to join hands with the guilds, the media, the citizens and the society to construct its corruption-
prevention network. He also said that the government would co-operate with the CCAC to promote integrity management among
local enterprises and establish a clean and fair business environment.
Click here to read more »
Launching Ceremony of Collected Essays of Conference “Prevention and Suppression of Corruption in the Private
Sector: Reality and Foresight” and Seminar on Corruption Prevention in the Private Sector
The CCAC held the Launching Ceremony of Collected Essays of Conference “Prevention and Suppression of Corruption in the
Private Sector: Reality and Foresight” on 23rd February at Macau Tower Convention & Entertainment Centre. The Chief Executive,
Chui Sai On, officiated the ceremony and delivered a speech, expressing the Macao SAR Government’s concern for corruption
prevention. At the same time, the CCAC also held the Seminar on Corruption Prevention in the Private Sector during which around
500 experts from various fields and representatives of political and commercial associations from Macao shared the experiences in
promoting integrity management and business ethics in the private sector with delegates of anti-corruption agencies of Mainland
China and Hong Kong and representatives of the commercial sector in Hong Kong.
Since the law Prevention and Suppression of Bribery in the Private Sector will enter into force on 1st March 2010, last year the
CCAC initiated a series of promotion of the new law, including the Conference “Prevention and Suppression of Corruption in the
Private Sector: Reality and Foresight” co-organized with the Ministry of Supervision of the People’s Republic of China and the
ICAC of Hong Kong in late November last year. During the conference, the graft-fighting agencies and representatives of private
enterprises had an in-depth discussion of the supervisory mechanism, measures on corruption prevention and integrity building. In
order to share the achievements of the conference with the general public and strengthen their awareness of integrity and law-
abidingness, the CCAC published the speeches and essays.
The Launching Ceremony was officiated by the Chief Executive, Chui Sai On, President of the Legislative Assembly, Lau Cheok
Va, Deputy Director General of the General Office of National Bureau of Corruption Prevention of China, Yu Xiancheng,
Prosecutor General of the Public Prosecutions Office, Ho Chio Meng, the Commissioner Against Corruption, Fong Man Chong,
Member of the Monitoring Committee for the Discipline of the CCAC Personnel, Paula Ling, Director of Community Relations of
the ICAC, Julie Mu Fee-Man, Director of the Research Centre for Sustainable Development Strategies, Tse Chi Wai, Deputy
Commissioner Against Corruption, Endy Tou, President of the Chinese Manufacturers' Association of Hong Kong, David Y. K.
Wong, President of Board of Directors of the Macau Chamber of Commerce, Hoi Sai Iun, Director of Macao Federation of Trade
Unions, Chan Kam Meng, and Director of Macao General Union of Neighbourhood Associations, Io Hong Meng.
In his speech, the Chief Executive said that the Legislative Assembly’s approval of the law Prevention and Suppression of Bribery
in the Private Sector in 2009 signified that prevention and combat of corruption in the private sector was a social consensus. He
recognized the CCAC’s efforts on conducting holistic promotions, assisting different sectors in formulation of integrity
management rules and its strategies to join hands with the guilds, the media, the citizens and the society to construct its corruption-
prevention network. He also said that the government would co-operate with the CCAC to promote integrity management among
local enterprises and establish a clean and fair business environment.
Click here to read more »
China: Return to outdated rules for Hong Kong and Macau journalists
Reporters Without Borders, 6 February 2009
Reporters Without Borders deplores the fact that the more relaxed regulations for the foreign press that were introduced for the
Olympic Games will no longer apply to Hong Kong and Macau journalists visiting the mainland although they have been maintained
for foreign journalists. The Chinese authorities have told the Hong Kong Journalists Association (HKJA) that reporters from Hong
Kong and Macau must obtain a press card from an official body in order to work on the mainland and must request permission
from the authorities before every trip into the interior, much as they did before the more new regulations took effect.
“Why are journalists from Hong Kong and Macau being treated less well than foreign journalists?” Reporters Without Borders
asked. “It is inexplicable. We urge the Chinese authorities not to return to the past in this way, reversing one of the few positive
effects of the Olympic Games.”
Reporters Without Borders has just published an evaluation of the human rights situation in China six months after inauguration of
the Olympic Games on 8 August.
It was the Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office of China’s State Council that today announced that journalists from the two
special administrative regions would no longer enjoy the freedoms that were introduced for the Olympic Games period. They will
now have to obtain a press card from the All-China Journalists Association (the official union) before working on the mainland, and
they will have to show the card before interviewing Chinese citizens. The will also have to notify the authorities before travelling.
According to the government news agency Xinhua, the new regulations state that: “Journalists from Hong Kong and Macau must
abide by national laws and journalism ethics and should carry out coverage objectively and fairly.”
Mak Yin-ting, a journalist and former general secretary of the HKJA, said: “In principle, it is unfair. In practice, it will depend on
the good will of the authorities. In either case, it is not normal that this should be worse than the Olympic regulations”. Tam Chi-
keung, the HKJA’s current chairperson, told Reuters: “This is returning to the old ways … this cannot fulfil the actual needs of
Hong Kong and Macao journalists.”
Click here to read more »
Reporters Without Borders, 6 February 2009
Reporters Without Borders deplores the fact that the more relaxed regulations for the foreign press that were introduced for the
Olympic Games will no longer apply to Hong Kong and Macau journalists visiting the mainland although they have been maintained
for foreign journalists. The Chinese authorities have told the Hong Kong Journalists Association (HKJA) that reporters from Hong
Kong and Macau must obtain a press card from an official body in order to work on the mainland and must request permission
from the authorities before every trip into the interior, much as they did before the more new regulations took effect.
“Why are journalists from Hong Kong and Macau being treated less well than foreign journalists?” Reporters Without Borders
asked. “It is inexplicable. We urge the Chinese authorities not to return to the past in this way, reversing one of the few positive
effects of the Olympic Games.”
Reporters Without Borders has just published an evaluation of the human rights situation in China six months after inauguration of
the Olympic Games on 8 August.
It was the Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office of China’s State Council that today announced that journalists from the two
special administrative regions would no longer enjoy the freedoms that were introduced for the Olympic Games period. They will
now have to obtain a press card from the All-China Journalists Association (the official union) before working on the mainland, and
they will have to show the card before interviewing Chinese citizens. The will also have to notify the authorities before travelling.
According to the government news agency Xinhua, the new regulations state that: “Journalists from Hong Kong and Macau must
abide by national laws and journalism ethics and should carry out coverage objectively and fairly.”
Mak Yin-ting, a journalist and former general secretary of the HKJA, said: “In principle, it is unfair. In practice, it will depend on
the good will of the authorities. In either case, it is not normal that this should be worse than the Olympic regulations”. Tam Chi-
keung, the HKJA’s current chairperson, told Reuters: “This is returning to the old ways … this cannot fulfil the actual needs of
Hong Kong and Macao journalists.”
Click here to read more »
| Click map for larger view |
| Click flag for Country Report |
| TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS |
Current situation: Macau is a transit and destination territory for women trafficked for the purpose of commercial sexual
exploitation; most females in Macau's sizeable sex industry come from the interior regions of China or Mongolia, though a
significant number also come from Russia, Eastern Europe, Thailand, and Vietnam; the majority of women in Macau's
prostitution trade appear to have entered Macau and the sex trade voluntarily, though there is evidence that some are
deceived or coerced into sexual servitude, often through the use of debt bondage; organized criminal syndicates are
reportedly involved in bringing women to Macau, and fear of reprisals from these groups may prevent some women from
seeking help
Tier rating: Tier 2 Watch List - Macau is placed on the Tier 2 Watch List for failing to show evidence of increasing
efforts to address trafficking since 2004
exploitation; most females in Macau's sizeable sex industry come from the interior regions of China or Mongolia, though a
significant number also come from Russia, Eastern Europe, Thailand, and Vietnam; the majority of women in Macau's
prostitution trade appear to have entered Macau and the sex trade voluntarily, though there is evidence that some are
deceived or coerced into sexual servitude, often through the use of debt bondage; organized criminal syndicates are
reportedly involved in bringing women to Macau, and fear of reprisals from these groups may prevent some women from
seeking help
Tier rating: Tier 2 Watch List - Macau is placed on the Tier 2 Watch List for failing to show evidence of increasing
efforts to address trafficking since 2004
