From 2003 to 2006, the Civil Society Index was implemented in Hong Kong. The CSI Report was the outcome of a collaborative effort among the Hong Kong Council of Social Service, the University of Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Polytechnic University and the Chinese University of Hong Kong. International coordination was provided by the CIVICUS CSI Team. This implementation led to the publication of an analytical country report, presenting the results of the CSI initiative in the country.
Civil society in Hong Kong: A Vibrant but Loosely Organised Civil Society
The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region is one of few examples of the CSI being conducted in non-country contexts and is particularly relevant in light of the CSI assessment of in-land China (see above).
In order to produce a comprehensive and detailed assessment of the state of civil society, the Hong Kong team employed nation-wide opinion surveys, various regional consultations, a comprehensive media review of press and TV and an organisation survey of over 800 civil society groups operating in Hong Kong.
The CSI study revealed that the strengths of Hong Kong civil society lie in its enthusiasm in advocating ideas and values, its ability to shape public agenda and challenge public policy, as well as in its responsiveness to societal needs. However, there are major weaknesses reflected in the report such as the underdeveloped institutional structure (internal democracy and transparency), limited platforms to promote dialogues among CSOs, and financial dependency of some CSOs on the government. Time and a deliberate effort of all concerned stakeholders would hopefully cultivate a positive environment within which civil society in Hong Kong can flourish.
CSI Country Reports in Hong Kong
- Hong Kong CSI Report (2003-2006): Executive Summary. Downloadable in pdf[72KB].
- Hong Kong CSI Report (2003-2006): Full Report. Downloadable in pdf[705KB].
