The pursuit of equality is an ongoing journey; from time to time, we need to take stock and shift gears as we progress forward. In that spirit, over 200 equal rights enthusiasts from Hong Kong and across Asia Pacific got together from 20 to 21 September 2018 at the "Conference on Equality in the Asia Pacific 2018: Progress and Challenges" for a status update on equality for women, ethnic minorities and persons with disabilities (PWDs) in the region, as well as a cross-cultural discussion on shared challenges and best practices.

Co-organised by Hong Kong's Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC) and the Asia Pacific Forum of National Human Rights Institutions (APF), the conference boasted a line-up of over 30 distinguished speakers and panellists hailing from national human rights institutions, academic institutions, public bodies, NGOs and the legislature in Hong Kong. From affirmative action policies and gaps in anti-discrimination laws to the intersectional nature of identity and marginalisation, the issues examined transcend borders and often point to the need for stronger commitment and more willpower on the part of governments.

"It was incredibly exciting to see so many faces in the room, both familiar and new," said Prof Alfred CHAN, Chairperson of the EOC. "Indeed, we must tap into our collective wisdom and learn from each other's experience - both the success stories and the setbacks - in order to dismantle the hurdles in our ongoing fight against prejudice and discrimination. This conferece was definitely a good start where we all opened up about our frustrations and aspirations while gearing up for the road ahead. We at the EOC will continue to join and build platforms for this important conversation."

• Read the press release