One Country Two Systems Research Institute

The One Country Two Systems Research Institute (OCTS; Chinese:一國兩制研究中心) is a Hong Kong think tank founded in 1990 by a group of pro-Beijing politicians. It is registered in Hong Kong as a private non-profit company with limited liability and has been granted the status of a public interest charitable organisation by the Government of Hong Kong. The OCTS is a non-governmental organisation specializing in Hong Kong's public policy.

What is the OCTS?
The One Country Two Systems Research Institute (OCTS) is an independent research organisation that focuses on studying and analysing the implementation and effectiveness of the "One Country, Two Systems" principle. This principle was first proposed by Deng Xiaoping, the former leader of the People's Republic of China, as a framework to govern the special administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macau. OCTS aims to examine the progress, challenges, and implications of this governing model in maintaining the unique political, economic, and legal systems of these regions while ensuring their integration within the broader Chinese government structure.

One Country, Two Systems Principle
The "One Country, Two Systems" Principle was formulated through negotiations between Britain and China, in recognition of the historical, cultural, and socio-economic differences between Mainland China and Hong Kong. This principle was implemented on 1 July 1997, the day Hong Kong was reunified with China. It serves as the foundation of Hong Kong's legal framework, safeguarding essential rights such as Freedom of Speech and Freedom of Assembly. Additionally, the principle outlines the governance structure of Hong Kong. It is important to note that the validity of this principle is set to last for 50 years, concluding in 2047.

Founding of the OCTS and Sino-British Negotiations
The One Country Two Systems Research Institute (OCTS) was founded on 6 November 1990 by pro-Beijing politicians. As the expiration date of the British lease on Hong Kong drew near, discussions arose surrounding the governance and preservation of Hong Kong's unique characteristics upon its return to Chinese sovereignty. In 1984, the U.K. and China signed the Sino-British Joint Declaration outlining their plan for Hong Kong. The "One Country, Two Systems" principle, which aimed to uphold Hong Kong's existing political, economic, and legal systems, became the focal point of these negotiations. Whether Hong Kong supported the handover wasn't part of the discussion. The primary objective of OCTS was to conduct comprehensive research and analysis on the implementation of the "One Country, Two Systems" principle. Over the course of almost a decade, the institute focused its research efforts and policy proposals on issues pertaining to the Handover of Hong Kong.

Handover of Hong Kong
By 1997, the OCTS had around 30 members. The OCTS carried out research and analysis on the implementation of the 'One Country, Two Systems' principle, providing valuable insights. Their findings informed decision-making during the Handover, enhancing understanding of the transition's complexities.

The OCTS today
After the Handover of Hong Kong, the One Country Two Systems Research Institute (OCTS) played a role in the post-handover period. As a non-governmental public policy think tank, the OCTS focused its efforts on conducting research and analysis to address major social, economic, and governance issues in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR). It provided insights and policy recommendations on various aspects, including the economic and cooperative relationship between the HKSAR and its neighboring areas, particularly the Mainland. The OCTS continued to serve as an independent platform for research.

In 2012, the Executive Director of the Institute, Cheung Chi-kong, was appointed by Chief Executive Leung Chun-ying to the Executive Council.

Political Bias
Due to the fact that the OCTS is aligned with the pro-Beijing camp, critics argue that the OCTS is influenced by political agendas or affiliations, potentially compromising the objectivity and independence of its research and policy recommendations.

Lack of Transparency
The OCTS has gained notoriety for its lack of transparency. Critics raise concerns about the OCTS's transparency, especially regarding its funding sources, decision-making processes, and potential conflicts of interest. They argue that the lack of transparency undermines the credibility of its research.

Limited Impact
Especially considering how small the OCTS really is, with just around 45 members, critics argue that the OCTS's research and policy recommendations have had limited practical impact in addressing key issues or shaping policy decisions. The effectiveness of the institute in influencing decision-making processes is questionable.

Inadequate Representation
Concerns have been raised regarding the diversity and inclusivity of perspectives within the OCTS. Critics suggest that the institute may not adequately represent a wide range of stakeholders or address the concerns of marginalized groups.

Lack of Public Engagement
Critics have argued that the OCTS could enhance its public engagement by actively seeking broader input and feedback on its research findings and policy proposals. The lack of substantial input and feedback has raised doubts and questions about the effectiveness and transparency of the OCTS.

Public Perception before the 2019 Protests
Public perception of the One Country Two Systems Research Institute (OCTS) may vary depending on individuals' political orientations and viewpoints. The institute is associated with the pro-Beijing camp and has faced criticism from pro-democracy activists and scholars who perceive it as biased and supportive of the Chinese government's policies regarding Hong Kong. Furthermore, the OCTS has gained criticisms and doubts over its lack of transparency, inadequate representation, and lack of public engagement. But there are also people that view the institute as a credible and influential source of policy research and advice, particularly among those who are sympathetic to or benefit from the "One Country Two Systems" principle. Additionally, the Chinese government also sometimes appoints members of the OCTS to the Hong Kong Government. Such moves have gained both criticism and support from different parts of Hong Kong's society.

Public Perception after the 2019 Protests
After the 2019-2020 Hong Kong Protests, some individuals who supported the pro-Democracy movements raised skepticism and criticised the OCTS for potentially aligning with the Chinese Government. There were concerns about the institute's independence and impartiality, given the evolving political landscape and perceived encroachment on Hong Kong's autonomy. Conversely, those who aligned with the Chinese government's stance or held a favorable view of the "One Country Two Systems" principle continued to regard the OCTS as a valuable source of research and policy insights. They may have seen the institute as playing a crucial role in maintaining stability and promoting the benefits of the governing framework.