The Hong Kong democratic movement is witnessing a watershed moment. Just three years ago, the world watched tens of thousands of Hong Kong residents filled busy thoroughfares for 79 days. The protesters marched together hoping to achieve the promise of universal suffrage laid out in the Basic Law, the territory’s mini-constitution. But after several judicial rulings, including two last week that jailed 17 activists, the Hong Kong government has exhibited its resolve to clamp down on future demonstrations and thus quell the democratic movement.
