China consults public on new intelligence law
On May 16, China’s National People’s Congress released a draft version of new proposed intelligence laws that vastly expand Chinese surveillance capabilities. The public has until today to submit feedback on it.
The new laws grant expanded powers to Chinese intelligence agencies to monitor, seize and raid property of those deemed to threaten national security. Beijing faces terror-related problems in its Western province of Xinjiang.
The legislation has been criticised by Western commentators, who say the vague language employed by drafters could be exploited to crack down on political dissent.
While open to criticism, the document’s link was not on the Congress’ website, requiring the public to be privy to the exact link needed to access the document. This impeded the broader public’s ability to provide feedback.
The legislation is expected to be passed by the end of the year.