Women 'hold up half the sky’ and drive social progress, John Lee says 

Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu stated on International Women's Day that women, who make up 54 percent of Hong Kong's population, can "hold up half the sky,” acting as drivers of social progress.

The remarks were made when the city's leader officiated at a reception to celebrate International Women's Day 2026, hosted by the Home and Youth Affairs Bureau (HYAB) and the Women's Commission (WoC).

Lee noted that female participation in corporate leadership is continuously rising, and in professional sectors such as law and accounting, women account for more than half of the workforce. 

He pointed out that with seven female bureau directors, plus the Director of the Chief Executive's Office, the current administration has the highest proportion of women in its governing team in history.

He added that 49 percent of civil servants are female, with women making up over 45 percent of directorate-level positions, which is a testament to the government's long-standing efforts in promoting equal opportunities and highlights the significant contributions of women to Hong Kong. 

Meanwhile, Lee spoke about four traditional Chinese silk fabrics and how they resemble the qualities of Hong Kong women.

"Each fabric has its own character," he said. One represents the clarity and poise with which they balance family and career; another symbolizes an inclusive spirit, bringing people together and building consensus. 

He said that a third embodies resilience, soft yet unbreakable in the face of challenges, and the last captures women's confidence and grace as you represent Hong Kong on the world stage.

 “These four fabrics—clarity, inclusivity, resilience, and grace—are woven into the daily lives of women here in Hong Kong,” he added, expressing his hope that women would continue to illuminate the city with these four qualities.

Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs Alice Mak Mei-kuen also highlighted that the Women Empowerment Fund has allocated approximately HK$66 million to support over 450 development projects since its establishment.

She added that last year's Policy Address proposed increasing the fund's annual allocation to HK$30 million.

Furthermore, she stated that the first edition of the “She Inspires” Mentorship Programme received an enthusiastic response, and the number of participants in the second round will be increased to 120. 

Mak said she looks forward to more women building confidence and broadening their horizons through the platform.