Several proposed amendments to the Law on Penalties for Administration of Public Security (PAPS) have caused huge public outcries in China recently. The draft provisions prohibit: (a) the wearing of outfits or symbols in the public that would harm the spirit of the Chinese nation or would hurt the feelings of the Chinese people; (b) the making and spreading of materials or speeches to the same effect; and (c) any act of negating the deeds and spirit of national heroes and martyrs. A fine of 5,000 yuan and a detention period of 15 days could be incurred for violations. The PAPS, whose origin can be traced back to the early 1900s, have always been controversial.

The legislation authorizes and regulates the all-in-one police powers of investigation, conviction, and sentencing of people committing acts that are not to be charged under the Penal Code but considered as having the effect of disrupting public order or endangering public safety in neighborhoods and localities. Detention without trial administered by the police can be up to 20 days. The talk will discuss the origins of the PAPS. the proposed amendments and their possible impact, as well as the legislative trends behind their legislative renaissance.


This event will take place in-person on Wednesday 29 November 2023 at 12:30pm in the School of Law, Board Room, QUB (MST.09.022)