Pro-democracy camp (Macau)

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Pro-democracy camp in Macau (also known as the pan-democracy camp) is a coalition of politicians, social activists, and groups that push for more democracy in Macau. They may work together on common goals or avoid fielding against each other in elections.

Key points:
- Names: Chinese 民主派; Portuguese campo pró-democracia.
- Founded: 1990.
- Ideology: Liberalism and liberal democracy.
- Goals: Faster democratization and universal, equal suffrage. They seek greater public input in government and accountability.
- Position: Critical of the post-1999 Macanese government and the central government of China’s rule.
- Support base: A wide range of people from the working class to the middle class and professionals.
- Opposition: The pro-establishment camp, which is seen as more supportive of the central government.
- History: Traces back to the “livelihood faction” of the 1980s, led by Alexandre Ho. They rose in the late 1980s and early 1990s, with a notable shift in 1996 when Antonio Ng was elected. Some still refer to this as the “democracy and livelihood camp.”
- In the Legislative Assembly: The pro-democracy camp holds a small share of seats (about 3 of 33).
- Members: Includes civil organizations, social activists, political parties, groups, and lawmakers.
- Challenges: They are criticized by some state-controlled media and the post-1999 government, and have faced accusations such as treason in certain cases.