Think tank urges rural events, youth roles in Northern Metropolis

The government should organize major rural events and open self-nomination opportunities for local youth to join the Advisory Committee on the Northern Metropolis to boost engagement, a local youth think tank urged.

A recent study by Youth I.D.E.A.S., a local think tank under the Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups, revealed that fewer than 10 percent of young Hong Kong youths are optimistic about rural conservation. 

The study, conducted via an online survey from March 18 to April 2, polled 534 youths aged 15 to 34, alongside in-depth interviews with 15 young individuals and five experts.

Findings showed that 78.1 percent of respondents had visited rural areas in the past year.

Over 90 percent agreed with rural conservation’s importance on sustainable development, and 83 percent saw it as an alternative way for youth to participate in society.

However, 76.8 percent of them had never participated in such efforts, citing lack of time, knowledge, and access.

Some said they rarely received conservation-related information, while others viewed rural areas as "remote and undeveloped" due to inconvenient transportation.

Regarding the Northern Metropolis, a major development project spanning over 30,000 hectares near Shenzhen, respondents rated their expectations for its "urban-rural integration" principle at an average of 5.2 out of 10, slightly above neutral.

The think tank noted that many rural areas remain neglected and urged the government to draft a sustainable urban-rural development blueprint.

Youth I.D.E.A.S. also proposed an annual large-scale rural event featuring workshops, dialogues, and hands-on activities.

Additionally, as the Northern Metropolis project progresses, it suggests reserving spots on its advisory committee for self-nominated youth members, ensuring younger voices shape the city’s long-term development.

While youth participation in rural conservation remains low, the group emphasized that the government’s focus on the issue over the past decade marks a positive start.

(Ayra Wang)