Developing a conceptual framework towards promoting a socially inclusive Hong Kong

ABSTRACT

An empirically driven consolidated framework is needed to help navigate the development of social inclusion of South Asian and Southeast Asian ethnic minorities in Hong Kong. A qualitative pilot study with 11 individuals, who were social service providers and religious and ethnic community leaders from diverse ethnic backgrounds, was conducted to collect their perceptions of how existing policies affect the social integration of ethnic minorities and propose policy implications in Hong Kong. Thematic analysis was conducted suggesting two broad themes: 1) integration of social harmony and social justice, and 2) articulation of participation in political process and policymaking.

KEYWORDS:

• Social policy
• ethnic minority
• social inclusion
• social integration
• discrimination
• reduced inequality

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust.

Notes on contributors

Gizem Arat

Gizem Arat is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Sociology and Social Policy at Lingnan University. Her research consists of the promotion of socially inclusive societies. She is interested in exploring evidence-based social integration and articulating resilience of disadvantaged ethnic communities in Hong Kong and East Asia.

Lucy P. Jordan

Lucy Porter Jordan is an Associate Professor in the Department of Social Work and Social Administration and an Associate Dean of Faculty of Social Sciences at the University of Hong Kong. Her research focuses on how societal transformation impacts on intimate family  life and wellbeing.

Cheryl H. K. Chui

Cheryl HK Chui is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Social Work and Social Administration at the University of Hong Kong, Her professional and research experience focused on the intersection between social policies, third sector, and the wellbeing of vulnerable population groups.

Paul W. C. Wong

Paul WC Wong is an Associate Professor in the Department of Social Work and Social Administration at the University of Hong Kong. He has been involved in suicide prevention research and mental health promotion and practice, positive youth development interventions for local and ethnic minority youth in Hong Kong, caregivers of children with autism, and social withdrawal behaviour.