Against Child Abuse has been advocating for a mandatory reporting mechanism in Hong Kong to ensure early identification and intervention in suspected child abuse cases. We are pleased to learn that the Legislative Council had passed the Bill with its amendments on the third reading on 11 July 2024. This is an important milestone in the development of child protection that we support unswervingly.

Children are vulnerable and may not be able to protect themselves or seek help. The mandatory reporting mechanism aims to protect children, raising alertness in practitioners for their professional judgment in the early identification and intervention of serious child abuse, providing a deterrent effect on potential abusers, thus weaving a comprehensive child safety net.

Protecting children is not the sole duty of professionals. Public awareness of child protection will also increase with the implementation of the mechanism. We earnestly hope for the working together of stakeholders such that children would grow and develop in a safe and caring environment.

For effective implementation of the mechanism, the priority in the coming 18 months would be to accomplish preparing for the supporting measures, which include a clear and easy to understand reporter guide, regular online and physical trainings, provisions in emergency placement and manpower, publicity, parental education and family support preventive efforts. Timely review after mechanism implementation is needed. Such accomplishment calls for the concerted efforts by the government, non-governmental organizations and relevant stakeholders.

Against Child Abuse