Editorial | Words from another troubled time should inspire Hong Kong this year

Hong Kong welcomed a new decade with more muted celebrations than in the past as civil unrest continues after seven troubled months. Last night saw revelry, but also anti-government protests. Today, a big march is expected and it is to be hoped that it will proceed peacefully. The start of a new decade is a time to reflect and to look ahead.

Ten years ago, the Post wondered whether Hong Kong’s perceived ability to bounce back stronger from every crisis would hold true. The crisis then was the global economic meltdown from which the city was recovering.

The question remains relevant today, but this time the problem is harder to solve. The anti-government protests that have often descended into violence show no sign of abating with both sides holding firm.

There have been thousands of arrests and injuries and at least one death. Almost everyone has been affected. Most people’s new year’s wish would be for the deadlock to be broken and for the violence to end.

Chief Executive Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor promised in her address for the new year not to shy away from responsibility and to listen humbly to find a way out.

She has said this many times, but the impasse remains. She needs to show leadership. Action is urgently required, not merely words, to respond to the protests, heal the wounds and resolve divisions in society. We hope to see a more proactive approach from the government this year.