Make decent work for all a policy goal in Hong Kong

South China Morning Post

09-05-2025

Feel strongly about these letters, or any other aspects of the news? Share your views by emailing us your Letter to the Editor at
[email protected] or filling in
this Google form . Submissions should not exceed 400 words, and must include your full name and address, plus a phone number for verification
Advertisement
I refer to
your editorial , 'Putting Hong Kong's workers first on this Labour Day' (May 1).
Social justice is based on the principle that everyone deserves equal rights, opportunities and dignity regardless of their background. It calls for removing barriers that prevent people from reaching their full potential and insists on fairness in how society's resources and benefits are shared. Achieving social justice isn't just about lofty ideals – it's about concrete changes in everyday life, especially in the world of work.
In Hong Kong, the pursuit of social justice is closely linked to the need for decent work for all. Although the city is well-known for its economic dynamism, many workers do not enjoy the security and respect that should come with employment.
The gap between the wealthy and the working poor
has widened in recent years, with stagnant wages and high living costs putting pressure on millions of families. For many, especially those in low-paid or unstable jobs in sectors such as retail, hospitality and the gig economy, work does not guarantee a decent standard of living.
Advertisement
The situation is even tougher for ethnic minorities, who often face systemic challenges such as language barriers, discrimination and limited access to quality education and training. These disadvantages push many into low-income, insecure jobs, making upward social mobility more challenging and exclusion more likely. Women, young people and migrant workers are also at heightened risk of exploitation, especially as the Covid-19 pandemic exposed and deepened existing vulnerabilities.