Social Harmony in Hong Kong : Level, Determinants and Policy Implications

Fostering social harmony has been one of the three prime areas of concern as stated in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government’s recent policy addresses. This study aims at ascertaining how Hong Kong people perceive Hong Kong as a harmonious society. It also identifies the elements that are most conducive to social harmony in Hong Kong, so that the government could take reference when formulating new policies. 1,062 Hong Kong adult residents were interviewed by telephone in the second half of August 2006. Respondents were asked to rate their perceived level of social harmony and their satisfaction with 36 items (divided into three dimensions: public governance, society, and economy, family & work) for which the research team believes would be influencing the perceived level of social harmony. Results show that the average rating of social harmony was 5.57 (out of 10), delineating a moderate level of social harmony. Besides, the satisfaction scores on the three dimensions were all rated at an 'acceptable' level. Subsequent multivariate factor analysis and regression analysis show that the four extracted factors (from the three dimensions) had significant impacts on the level of social harmony. These were, in order of significance: (a) public governance, (b) social solidarity and respect, (c) economy/family/work and, (d) social tolerance and progressiveness. According to the factor loadings of each significant factor, we identified four core values which we hope the government would consider when formulating new policies, as follows: A Justice Government with Sincerity on Communication, Mutual Support and Respect with Integrity and Dedication, Dedication to One’s Job and Community by Helping the Needed and, Creativity and Progressiveness with Tolerance. In summary, we firmly believe that the government should enhance its governance and communications with diverse groups of people in order to foster social harmony in Hong Kong. The government should also join hands with the people in order to spread the message of mutual respect, help and tolerance