Domestic violence cases involving children have 'significantly risen'

Rachael Ng

Hong Kong has seen a significant increase in domestic violence cases involving children over the past four years, according to Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun Yuk-han.

In reply to lawmaker Lillian Kwok Ling-lai, Sun reported that the SAR recorded 1,457 child protection cases last year - a 55 percent rise from the 940 cases in 2020.

Sun also said the police handled 1,236 criminal domestic violence cases in 2023, marking an increase of more than 10 percent from the 1,115 cases reported in 2019.

These cases included serious offenses such as murder, manslaughter, assault, aggravated assault, rape, and criminal intimidation.

Regarding the procedures for addressing uncovered domestic violence cases, Sun said the police refer cases to the Social Welfare Department for follow-up after obtaining consent.

The SWD provides support - including admission to refuge centers and immediate intervention through social workers - and implements crisis intervention tailored to the victim's needs.

Kwok also asked about the government's ongoing support for individuals who decline referral services from the SWD.

Sun responded that the police provide a "Family Support Service" information card, developed in partnership with the SWD, to help victims directly contact relevant social welfare organizations for counseling and assistance.

Concerning the effectiveness of the government's education and publicity efforts to prevent domestic violence, Sun said the SWD has launched the "Strengthening Families and Combating Violence" campaign to raise public awareness about domestic violence and its prevention.

"The SWD also organizes mass events and district-based public education programs to encourage those in need to seek early assistance, prevent violence against family members, and promote family harmony," Sun added.

rachael.ng@singtaonewscorp.com