At the Edge of the Empire: Mapping the Law of Hong Kong’s Paradiplomacy

Abstract

Summary Hong Kong lacks sovereignty but possesses unique quasi-state external relations powers. This special feature enables it not only to inherit former paradiplomatic ties from its British predecessor, but also to develop a plethora of external relations. During the course of the present political turmoil and friction with Beijing, it has struggled to develop external relations with foreign states, subnational entities and international organisations. While paradiplomacy concerning quasi-states is no longer a neglected subject, and Hong Kong’s role as a prominent autonomous financial hub notwithstanding, few studies have examined the paradiplomacy of the city. This article analyses the constitutional regime and underexplored legal topics of Hong Kong’s paradiplomacy, including the legal basis and framework for such. It argues that Hong Kong can lay a solid legal framework for paradiplomacy and its paradiplomatic powers should be more widely recognised because of its potential to yield substantial impact on international law and relations.