Consult the people to improve governance
Recent surveys show a worrying trend of growing dissatisfaction with the quality of life and a greater desire, especially among the young, to emigrate
Nothing is more damaging to a government than losing public support. In this respect, the findings of two recent surveys indicate a worrying trend that warrants the attention of Chief Executive Leung Chun-ying. Public grievance seems to have reached a dangerously high level. Without measures to address it, people may vote with their feet.
The potential exodus is spurred by growing discontent in most aspects of governance and quality of life. For instance, more than 80 per cent of the city’s youth are unhappy with housing and governance. While overall dissatisfaction among all age groups is somewhat lower, most people feel they have little say over policies and decisions. Officials perform particularly poorly in listening to the people, carrying out decisions and resolving social conflicts, according to the Civic Exchange survey.
Although those who eventually quit Hong Kong may be in the minority, it is still worrying when so many lack a sense of belonging. More than 60 per cent of the respondents said the city was neither a good place to retire nor for children to grow up. Worse, they do not have high hopes of change within five years.