Formation and Background

Occupy Central with Love and Peace (OCLP) was formed on March 27, 2013, by three prominent figures in Hong Kong's academic and religious communities. The movement operated from 2013 to 2014 and was officially disbanded when its founders surrendered to police on December 3, 2014.

Reverend Chu Yiu-ming

A respected religious leader who brought moral authority to the movement's non-violent principles and peaceful advocacy approach.

Professor Benny Tai Yiu-ting

Associate Professor of Law at the University of Hong Kong who conceptualized the civil disobedience strategy and theoretical framework.

Dr. Chan Kin-man

Associate Professor of Sociology who contributed to the movement's organizational structure and public engagement methods.

Constitutional Context

The movement emerged in response to the Hong Kong Basic Law's provisions for universal suffrage. Article 45 of the Basic Law states that "the ultimate aim is the selection of the Chief Executive by universal suffrage upon nomination by a broadly representative nominating committee in accordance with democratic procedures."

In December 2007, the National People's Congress Law Committee ruled that the election of the fifth Chief Executive in 2017 could be implemented by universal suffrage, followed by the Legislative Council elections.

Core Principles of Occupy Central with Love and Peace

Love and Peace

The movement's name emphasized constructive dialogue and peaceful resolution of political differences through non-violent means.

Democratic Process

Advocacy for electoral systems that meet international standards of universal and equal suffrage within Hong Kong's constitutional framework.

Civil Disobedience

Peaceful resistance to perceived unjust policies while accepting legal consequences of such actions and maintaining respect for rule of law.

Non-Violence

All actions were conducted through peaceful means, with participants taking a pledge of non-violence and commitment to peaceful advocacy.

Methodology

Occupy Central with Love and Peace proposed a structured approach to democratic reform through four main phases:

  1. Dialogue: Engaging in constructive discussions with government officials and stakeholders
  2. Deliberation: Public forums and deliberation days for civic engagement and community discussion
  3. Citizens' Authorization: Civic referendum to determine public support and community consensus
  4. Civil Disobedience: Peaceful occupation as a final resort if other methods proved unsuccessful

Historical Conclusion

The Occupy Central with Love and Peace movement concluded on December 3, 2014, when its three founders voluntarily surrendered to police and officially disbanded the organization. The movement's activities spanned from March 2013 to December 2014, representing a significant period in Hong Kong's political history.