In response to recent news about students of The University of Hong Kong allegedly harassing two fellow students at a dormitory, the EOC issued a statement on 13 September 2022 condemning any form of school bullying, while clarifying the scope and application of Hong Kong’s anti-discrimination ordinances.

EOC Chairperson Mr Ricky CHU Man-kin said, “Some of the alleged acts may fall within the definition of sexual harassment under the Sex Discrimination Ordinance (SDO), which covers any unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature where a reasonable third person, having regard to all the circumstances, would have anticipated that the victim would be offended, humiliated or intimidated. This includes unwelcome sexual advances and requests for sexual favours.”

Sexual harassment between students of the same educational institution is unlawful under the SDO.

Mr Chu continued, “It was also alleged that mocking remarks were made about the fact that the two students came from Mainland China. Such behaviour must be put to an end as it only serves to intensify tensions in society.”

The RDO currently provides protections against discrimination, harassment and vilification on grounds of race, colour, descent or national or ethnic origin.

In relation to discrimination faced by Mainland Chinese and new immigrants in Hong Kong, the EOC submitted recommendations to the Government last year as to how the RDO could be amended to better protect these communities. 

Click the link below to read the EOC’s statement in full.

• Read the EOC’s media statement