In recognition of World Habitat Day (3 October 2022), the EOC and Habitat for Humanity Hong Kong co-published an article in the South China Morning Post earlier this month, calling for greater inclusivity in the city housing goals, particularly for people with disabilities and ethnic minority communities. 

People with disabilities often have difficulties navigating their built environment and may require adaptations and assistance to get around. Therefore, the EOC has been active in advocating for universal design principles, which emphasise forward thinking and accommodation for the needs of diverse user groups, including not only people with disabilities, but also senior citizens, carers of young children and pregnant women. The city’s rapidly ageing population has heightened the urgency of this issue, which town planners, developers and architects can no longer ignore.

Another vulnerable group facing barriers to getting decent housing is ethnic minorities, especially the disadvantaged among them. It is not uncommon to hear of landlords refusing to rent, or asking for higher rent and of property agents unwilling to provide services on account of the prospective tenant’s race. The Race Discrimination Ordinance clearly prohibits this kind of behaviour. But law is only part of the solution. For lasting change, we need to uproot deep-seated stereotypes and biases that lead to discriminatory attitudes. Since last year, the EOC has embarked on an awareness campaign targeting landlords, tenants and property agents with the aim of tackling the problem through shared responsibility.

Ultimately, with a more equitable and fair housing system, Hong Kong can showcase its global leadership in striving to leave no one behind, and create an environment where all residents are empowered to contribute to the city’s role as a global hub over the long term.

• Read the article in full