In 2047, the "one country, two systems" arrangement that currently governs Hong Kong is set to expire after a 50-year period since the 1997 handover from Britain to China. What will happen then is uncertain and subject to political, legal, and social developments in the coming years. Major possibilities include:

• Hong Kong continuing to have some form of autonomy and maintaining its distinct political, legal, and economic systems beyond 2047, provided it proves useful and loyal to China. Some hope for negotiation and self-determination by Hong Kong people to influence the post-2047 arrangement.
• Fully assimilating Hong Kong into China under "one country, one system," effectively ending Hong Kong's unique legal and economic systems and replacing them with China's socialist governance structure.
• A gradual transition process leading up to 2047 with incremental integration into China's system rather than an abrupt change at midnight on June 30, 2047. Evidence suggests land leases and property arrangements have already been extended beyond 2047, signaling long-term continuity.
• The situation depends heavily on Beijing's political decisions and the broader geopolitical context, with potential influences from economic, social stability, and diplomatic considerations.
• Some see 2047 as a "second chance" for Hong Kong's people to regain rights and self-rule through democratic processes, while others expect tighter controls and reduced freedoms.

Overall, 2047 marks an important but not absolute deadline, with changes likely to unfold well before that year. Hong Kong's future could range from maintaining significant autonomy to full integration into China's system, depending on actions taken by China, Hong Kong stakeholders, and international dynamics.