On January 18, 2025, the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Division of Public Policy (HKUST) and the Education University of Hong Kong co-organized a significant event in their Public Policy Dialogue Series titled “Is Hong Kong’s Population Policy Working? Coping with Demographic Challenges and Attracting Talent.” The conference brought together experts to discuss the critical demographic issues facing Hong Kong and explore effective policy responses. The event was moderated by Associate Professor Alex He Jingwei from HKUST, who guided the discussions and facilitated engaging dialogues among the speakers. Professor Anthony Cheung, a leading figure in public administration and former Secretary for Transport and Housing, opened the conference with a comprehensive overview of the evolution of Hong Kong’s population policy. He highlighted the formation of a task force in 2002 and subsequent policy reviews in 2007 and 2012, emphasizing the need for continuous adaptation to changing demographics. The establishment of the Human Resources Planning Commission in 2018 was also noted as a key development aimed at consolidating government and sectoral efforts to support a diversified economy. A central theme of the conference was the demographic challenges currently facing Hong Kong. The elderly population (aged 65 and over) is projected to rise from 20.5% in 2021 to 36% by 2046, while the total fertility rate has significantly declined. This trend raises concerns about a shrinking workforce and potential brain drain, as many young, skilled residents seek opportunities abroad. The discussions also underscored the importance of health and quality of life. Although life expectancy is increasing, disparities in health outcomes, particularly among vulnerable populations, remain a pressing issue. The need for a comprehensive approach to healthcare and social services was emphasized, especially given the increasing dependency ratio. The conference featured a series of presentations from esteemed speakers, including Professor Paul Yip, Professor Lui Tai-lok, Dr. Wendy Hong Wen, and Professor Tang Heiwai. They introduced strategic initiatives from the current administration (2022-27), such as expanding talent admission schemes, enhancing labor importation programs in essential sectors, and implementing family-friendly measures to foster a supportive environment for childbearing. The event concluded with a call for public engagement and transparent policymaking to effectively address these complex demographic issues. By integrating diverse perspectives and fostering collaboration, the conference highlighted the urgency of innovative solutions to secure a sustainable future for Hong Kong amidst significant demographic shifts. Overall, this conference served as a crucial platform for dialogue, focusing on the challenges and opportunities within Hong Kong’s population policy framework. CONFERENCES AND EVENTS 20 Is Hong Kong’s Population Policy Working? Coping with Demographic Challenges and Attracting Talent Public Policy Dialogue Series 2024 – 2025
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