Hong Kong’s first list of ethnic minorities that are qualified and committed to serve on Hong Kong’s government committees—Race for Opportunity: Diversity List 2016— was launched by the Zubin Foundation to level the playing field among a vastly dominant Chinese workforce. The list profiles 16 individuals across various professions who have been through a screening process with Spencer Stuart, a leading recruitment firm and partner on the project. All of these candidates have a wealth of experience, plenty of passion and are committed to represent their communities in government.
Carrie Lam explored how racial equality could finally become reality in Hong Kong
Carrie Lam, Chief Secretary for Administration of Hong Kong SAR Government, recognised the importance racial diversity in Hong Kong, including in government, and emphasised the need for more equality among equals. “We have to build a society that embraces cultural diversity and racial harmony,” she stated.
According to a government poverty analysis, members of the South-East Asian community were at far greater risk of being below the poverty line, especially those in the younger generations. Government measures have been taken to address these issues faced by ethnic minorities, with initiatives directed at education, employment and community outreach. “These measures are not only for the younger generation and newcomers, but are designed to unleash the potential of all ethnic minorities to truly make Hong Kong an inclusive society for all,” she commented.
A primary focus is the early adaptation system, which focuses on enhancing Chinese language skills to allow children of all backgrounds to enter the local education system—a system currently almost inaccessible to ethnic minorities due to the wide gap in language ability and cultural understanding. Free kindergarten and special aid for ethnic minorities are among the plans the government has in place to aid integration and bridge the language divide between ethnicities. For older students, special vocational Chinese education programmes will be introduced as well.
Employment equality
In terms of employment, it was emphasised that the government has already amended Chinese requirements—among other initiatives—in order to facilitate ethnic minorities in government jobs. In the private sector, this requires all parties to recognise the scientifically proven value of diversity and embrace employees of all ethnicities.
“We strive to ensure that people from different ethnic groups enjoy equal access to job opportunities as others, both in the public and private sectors. I am delighted to see more and more ethnic minority faces in the civil service, particularly for some grades in the disciplinary forces,” Lam commented.
“Of course, we need the support of all sectors of the community to complement the Government's efforts in helping ethnic minorities fully integrate into society. It is therefore encouraging to see think-tanks such as the Zubin Foundation propel studies and research on the situation of ethnic minorities in Hong Kong and make recommendations to government bodies.”
Lam went on to praise the Diversity List with many candidates from non-Chinese backgrounds who are both willing and qualified to serve on government bodies. She emphasised that positive discrimination was not the way forward, but providing equal opportunity had to be a top priority.
Shalini Mahtani, Founder of The Zubin Foundation commented, “Hong Kong’s ethnic minorities—excluding Foreign Domestic Helpers—represent 3% of the population and is growing. The population of ethnic minorities is young in age and is an important talent pool at a time when Hong Kong has a rapidly ageing population. This population brings local knowledge, self-defines with a Hong Kong identity and is committed to staying in Hong Kong. This population should be included in advisory committees of our government and also on voluntary and corporate boards.”
Paul Arkwright
Publisher
