Equal Opportunities Commission

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E-news Issue 266

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Crimes (Amendment) Bill 2021 a boon to victims of sexual violence

On 30 September 2021, the EOC issued a press release welcoming the passage of the Crimes (Amendment) Bill 2021 in the Legislative Council. The Bill introduces new offences of voyeurism; unlawful recording or observation of intimate parts; publication of images originating from voyeurism or unlawful recording or observation of intimate parts; as well as publication or threatened publication of intimate images without consent.

The EOC made three submissions previously, and is pleased to see that the Government has adopted its recommendations in the Bill, namely: (i) to include an offence of recording/photography down the top of a person and that the offence be gender neutral; (ii) to include in the offences situations where an image has been altered to appear that a person’s intimate parts are visible; (iii) to include offences of threatening to publish recordings/photography; and (iv) to provide comprehensive powers whereby an application can be made by the Department of Justice to a Magistrate to seek orders that any person delete or remove any intimate images that they control (also known as disposal orders).

Mr Ricky CHU Man-kin, Chairperson of the EOC said, “The EOC is glad to learn that the Bill was passed by the Legislative Council. The amended law will bring substantial support to the work of the Government and the EOC in promoting equality and eliminating harassment and discrimination in society. It can better protect people from such serious conduct which violates the sexual autonomy of the victims, disproportionately targets women, and likely constitutes various forms of sexual harassment.”

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