Hong Kong child protection group logs 187 suspected abuse cases for 2022-23 and 8.5% year-on-year increase in calls to hotline

In Hong Kong, an organization dedicated to preventing child abuse received 1,232 calls to their hotline in 2022-23, marking an 8. 5% increase from the previous year. The group, Against Child Abuse, reported that these calls included 187 cases of suspected child abuse, with physical violence being a common issue. The director, Donna Wong, suggested that the rise in calls might be due to the public becoming more aware of child abuse, especially after some severe cases were reported in the news. The organization also supports young and single mothers through their Daylily Project. nnStatistics from the Social Welfare Department indicate that child abuse cases are on the rise, with a 5% increase in new reports last year. Nearly half of these cases involved physical harm, and a significant portion was due to neglect. The number of calls to Against Child Abuse has been fairly consistent over the past six years, but there was a noticeable increase in the last year. The organization noted that psychological abuse and multiple forms of abuse were also prevalent among the reported cases. A large majority of the abusers were family members, including mothers and fathers. nnDonna Wong highlighted the dangers of corporal punishment, stating that what might begin as a mild form of discipline can quickly escalate into abuse. She emphasized that physical punishment is not an effective teaching method and can lead to long-term damage in the parent-child relationship. Wong also pointed out that psychological abuse can be subtle and its effects may not be immediately visible. The Social Welfare Department defines psychological abuse as actions that harm a child's mental health, such as exposure to family violence or threats. The organization is advocating for clearer laws on psychological abuse and the implementation of the Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse Bill, which would require professionals to report abuse. They also support a ban on corporal punishment and the introduction of comprehensive sex education in schools to prevent abuse.