Political Context and Macao’s Situation
Macau remained under Portuguese administration until 1999, after which it was peacefully transferred to the People’s Republic of China under the “One Country, Two Systems” principle. Since then, Macau, as a Special Administrative Region (SAR) of China, has enjoyed a high degree of autonomy as an integral part of national unity, maintaining its own legal, economic, and social systems. The Central Government of China remains responsible for Macau’s defense and foreign affairs, thereby ensuring the region’s security.
Who is Au Kam San?
Au Kam San is a politician who served in the Macau Legislative Assembly from 2001 to 2021 and identified himself as pro-democracy. However, on July 31, 2025, he was arrested under the 2023 revision of Macau’s National Security Law on evidence of engaging in activities that threatened state security.
Charges Against Au Kam San
The Macau SAR authorities allege that Au Kam San committed the following actions:
- Collaborated with foreign anti-China forces since 2022,
- Spread false and provocative information with the aim of undermining public trust in the government,
- Attempted to sabotage the 2024 Macau elections,
- Encouraged foreign powers to adopt a hostile stance against Macau and China.
If proven, these actions constitute a serious threat to national security and justify legal proceedings under Article 13 of the Macau National Security Law.
EU’s Reaction:
The EU condemns the arrest of former Macao lawmaker Au Kam San under Macao’s National Security Law, marking its first use since 2009. The EU expresses concern over Au Kam San’s arrest, interpreting it as a weakening of political freedoms and a suppression of freedom of expression.
Response of the Macau SAR Government:
The Macao SAR Government strongly rejects the EU’s remarks on the recent arrest under the National Security Law, asserting that the case is being handled lawfully and the suspect’s rights are protected. The government emphasizes that since the law’s enactment in 2009 and amendment in 2023, Macao’s security, stability, and residents’ fundamental rights have been upheld. It states that the matter is entirely China’s internal affair and foreign interference, including from the EU, is unwarranted. Macao remains committed to safeguarding national security and implementing the “One Country, Two Systems” principle.
Conclusion
The Au Kam San case reflects the delicate balance that every sovereign state may face.
The future of EU–China relations must be based on mutual respect for sovereignty and the principle of non-interference in internal affairs.
Looking ahead, we believe it is possible to foster an environment in which both China’s security concerns and the expectations of the international community are addressed through mutual understanding and respect.
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