Advocacy for HK Children - the Time is Now!

Professor Katherine Lynch
CIF3 Organising Committee

Over the past month there have been distressing media reports in Hong Kong regarding shocking incidences of physical and mental abuse of children and the grinding poverty in which some children live despite the affluence of this community. 

These highlight important issues affecting the health and welfare of children in Hong Kong. Protecting children from poverty and abuse is paramount. Ensuring they have access to adequate food and shelter, proper education, and annual medical care is also vital.  Making certain that children get adequate rest and stress free playtime is key to building robust and resilient children, as is providing a clean environment with interesting and engaging play facilities. 

These issues may be simple or complex but they highlight the pressing need for the establishment of an advocate for all Hong Kong children – an independent “Children’s Ombudsman” or “Commissioner” – who can lobby the Government and the broader community of Hong Kong for and on behalf of the rights of children. From providing a voice for individual vulnerable children affected by abuse, malnourishment or poverty to pressuring the Government for the collective rights of Hong Kong children to cheaper school textbooks or access to better playground equipment, a Children’s Ombudsman would provide a much needed voice for Hong Kong children. 

While it is good to see the Government taking children’s rights more seriously, what is now needed is the next step forward – the immediate establishment of an independent Children’s Ombudsman in Hong Kong. The importance of advocacy for children in Hong Kong will be discussed at the 3rd Children’s Issues Forum being held on November 14 & 15 at The Chinese University of Hong Kong.