
The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) of the People's Republic of China is headed by the Chief Executive.
He is advised on major policy decisions by the Executive Council.
The HKSAR has a two-tier system of representative government. At the central level is the Legislative Council which legislates, approves public expenditure and monitors the performance of the Administration. At the district level, 18 district councils advise on the implementation of policies in their respective areas.
The Administration, the executive arm of the Government, is organised into the Government Secretariat and departments. Government Secretariat Bureaux formulate policies and initiate legislative proposals. Departments implement laws and policies and provide direct services to the community.
The HKSAR has an independent Judiciary. It is responsible for the administration of justice and the adjudication of cases in accordance with laws.
The systems practised in Hong Kong are prescribed by the Basic Law, the constitutional document of the HKSAR which came into effect upon its establishment on July 1, 1997.