I FULLY support legislator Anna Wu Hung-yuk in her attempts to introduce an Equal Opportunities Bill and to set up a Human Rights Commission for Hong Kong. The fundamental basis of human rights is the concern with the life, freedom and dignity of all human beings. In Hong Kong, even though a wide range of laws and institutions exists, violations of human rights and discrimination against minority groups are not uncommon. Under the existing laws, there is little the Government can do to stop violations of individual freedom. There has been outcry against these contemptible actions, but apparently social justice cannot be ensured by moral sanctions alone. In the light of past incidents, and despite the overwhelming support of the Legislative Council in setting up a Human Rights Commission, the Government's rejection, together with the dismissal of the needs of such a commission from the Chinese side, is certainly very disappointing. The Chinese Government's concern for prosperity and the status quo has somewhat devalued the importance of human rights in Hong Kong. Economic gains cannot, and should not, in any way replace the equality, freedom and dignity of all human beings. The lack of Chinese support in the setting up of a Human Rights Commission is particularly worrying. Should economic boom and social stability be considered as integral parts of the policies in governing Hong Kong as a special economic zone, such a commission will no doubt give a strong and clear reassurance of the benevolence and humanity of the Chinese Government not only to the Hong Kong citizens but also to the international community. The passing and implementation of an Equal Opportunities Bill, together with the setting up of an independent Human Rights Commission, concurs with the principles of humane government and creates the path for a more humanitarian, just and peaceful society. Without such a legislation and mechanism, it is difficult to translate rights into reality. DR JOHN W. L. TSE Vice-Chairperson, Movement Against Discrimination
