CONFERENCES AND EVENTS 21 This session of the Policy Dialogue Series 2024-25 featured a diverse panel of experts discussing key issues in Hong Kong’s policy landscape. The event was moderated by Assistant Professor Benjamin Steuer from HKUST, who facilitated the dialogue and ensured a productive exchange of ideas. Professor Anthony B. L. Cheung opened the discussion by emphasizing the importance of effective policy delivery in enhancing governance capacity and public trust. He addressed the challenges faced by the Hong Kong government, highlighting issues such as legislative gridlock and over-politicization. Cheung stressed that successful governance requires not only strategic planning but also the ability to adapt to changing circumstances and engage various stakeholders. Professor Lui Tai-lok focused on the implications of organizing mega events in Hong Kong. He acknowledged the government’s efforts to rejuvenate the city’s image post-COVID-19 through such events but questioned their long-term effectiveness. Tai-lok argued that while it is essential to attract visitors, the quality and distinctiveness of these events should be prioritized to ensure they contribute meaningfully to the city’s reputation and economic recovery. Dr. Kay Lam Chi-yan discussed the critical role of policy review in the current governance environment. She highlighted the importance of learning from past policy mistakes and emphasized the need for a structured approach to evaluation. Lam proposed the establishment of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to measure the effectiveness of policies, advocating for a system that encourages continuous improvement and accountability. Professor Christine Loh tackled the issue of waste disposal charging, emphasizing the “polluters pay” principle. She pointed out the necessity of public understanding and consensus for successful implementation. Loh warned that community opposition and legislative controversies could hinder progress, stressing the importance of transparent communication and stakeholder engagement to build support for waste management initiatives. Mr. Bernard Chan addressed the regulatory challenges surrounding online car-hailing services like Uber. He discussed the tension between traditional taxi services and new entrants in the sharing economy. Chan advocated for a balanced regulatory framework that encourages innovation while ensuring fair competition, highlighting the need for policies that adapt to technological advancements and changing consumer expectations. Throughout the dialogue, the speakers collectively emphasized the importance of governance and policy delivery in addressing contemporary challenges in Hong Kong. They underscored the need for transparency, accountability, and effective communication in building public trust. The event provided a platform for exchanging insights and best practices in policy delivery. The discussions highlighted the significance of active stakeholder engagement and collaboration in achieving successful policy outcomes. The dialogue concluded with a shared commitment to fostering a more inclusive and responsive governance framework that can effectively address the community’s needs while promoting sustainable development in Hong Kong. Lessons in Policy Delivery: Waste Disposal Charging, Online Car Hailing, and Mega Events Public Policy Dialogue Series 2024 – 2025
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