This briefing paper presents research analysing patterns in arrests, bail decisions and prosecutions under the NSL and other national security legislation. The findings reveal how these laws have eroded key legal safeguards that once formed the foundation for the protection of human rights and the rule of law in Hong Kong. In particular, the research highlights two major concerns: the criminalisation of the legitimate exercise of the right to freedom of expression and the low bail grant rates with prolonged pre-trial detention following arrests.