Editorial | Young need hope, not the urge to ‘let it rot’
- As more mainland Chinese youngsters choose to give up on society, Hong Kong has to ensure the phenomenon does not gain traction here
A growing sense of disengagement among the younger generation – or lying flat – has prompted some soul-searching in this part of the world. And as if that was not bad enough, some young Chinese citizens have apparently taken it to new heights by giving up totally. The so-called bailan, or a “let it rot” mentality, is arguably even worse than doing just the bare minimum. There is every reason to be concerned if the social phenomenon gains traction.
Whether such a mindset has become mainstream culture on the mainland is a matter for social research, but it says something when it has generated hundreds of millions of reads and discussions on social media since March. The two buzzwords are indeed just as bad. They encapsulate the despondency and helplessness among youngsters in response to perceived inequality and lack of opportunity and social mobility in an increasingly competitive society. Even state media have expressed concerns and described such mentality as “toxic chicken soup for the soul”.
The trend is a reflection of the nation’s changing social and economic circumstances. The growing affluence of Chinese parents means their grown-up children may afford unconventional lifestyles. The Covid-19 pandemic has also dampened the job market and redefined work and living. Indeed, the needs and desires of young workers nowadays are different from those of previous generations. According to a study by a research group, more than 200 million mainlanders work as freelancers, with more than 16 per cent of fresh graduates categorising themselves as such last year. The figures are food for thought for the authorities and employers.
Even though mainland jargon may not resonate as much here, the difficulties facing Hong Kong youth are no less challenging. Adding to them is a deepening political divide. Regaining trust and cooperation with youngsters is a priority for Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu. The future of the nation and the city rests on the support of the people. It is incumbent upon the authorities to instil hope and a stronger sense of belonging among the youth. Both the mainland and local authorities have pledged not to lie flat in fighting the pandemic. Perhaps the same commitment is needed in youth work.
