More young Hongkongers back independence and are less supportive of peaceful protest, poll shows
Scholars warn the government to pay attention as the young are ‘losing patience’ and unless the root of the problem is found, more unrest may follow
Almost one in every five Hong Kong residents believe that the city should go independent after 2047, a poll conducted by the Chinese University found.
The university’s journalism school interviewed 1,010 residents from July 6 to 15, on their views about Hong Kong’s future. It also discovered that young people are becoming less supportive of fighting for political reform in a “peaceful and non-violent” manner.
Scholars warned that government officials must try to understand what caused this shift in mindset, or face more difficulties and social unrest in the years to come.
The results come two months before the Legislative Council polls in September, and as debate heats up on a controversial addition to the electoral rules which targets independence advocates. Candidates could risk disqualification for refusing to sign a new form requiring them to declare that Hong Kong is an inalienable part of China.
Asked if the “one country, two systems” principle should be extended after 2047 – the end date of Beijing’s promise of 50 years without change after the 1997 handover – 69.6 per cent of poll respondents said yes, while six per cent said no.