For a second summer season in a row, political unrest has returned to the streets of Hong Kong.

Hundreds of protesters were arrested in the occupied procuring district of Causeway Bay on Wednesday, July 1, soon after China’s central govt imposed a national stability regulation in excess of the semi-autonomous city. Protesters and law enforcement also clashed in May perhaps and June soon after the security legislation was very first proposed.

The new law dramatically broadens the powers of community and mainland authorities to investigate, prosecute and punish dissenters.

Critics say the regulation has stripped Hong Kong of its autonomy and important civil and social freedoms. The Chinese and nearby governments argue it can be vital to suppress unrest and uphold mainland sovereignty.

Very last summer months, anti-authorities protests were sparked by potent opposition to a proposed extradition regulation. Critics feared the bill would make it possible for citizens to be sent across the border into mainland China. Hong Kong Main Executive Carrie Lam withdrew the invoice in September but refused to give ground on 4 other calls for, which incorporate larger democracy for the metropolis and an independent commission into police perform.