China Demands Consulates in Hong Kong Provide Information on Local Staff

China's foreign ministry in Hong Kong has requested that consulates in the city provide details on their locally employed staff, including job titles, home addresses, and identification information. The request, in line with international customary practice, comes as Beijing tightens control over Hong Kong following the imposition of a national security law in 2020. The consulates have been asked to comply with the request by October 18. Some Western governments have criticized the laws as curbing social and political freedoms, while Chinese and Hong Kong officials argue they are necessary for restoring stability.