Government committed to promoting equal opportunities for people of different sexual orientations and transgenders

     In response to media enquiries on the Hong Kong Pride Parade, a spokesman for the Constitutional and Mainland Affairs Bureau today (November 17) said that the Government is committed to promoting equal opportunities for people of different sexual orientations and transgenders on the basis of upholding the existing marriage institution, with a view to fostering in the community the culture and values of inclusiveness, mutual respect and non-discrimination.

     The spokseman said, "On public education and publicity, we have been using various channels, such as online platforms, television, radio, newspapers, seminars, briefings and roving exhibitions to promote the message of equal opportunities for people of different sexual orientations and transgenders. We have also introduced the Code of Practice against Discrimination in Employment on the Ground of Sexual Orientation to employers with a view to promoting equal employment opportunities among all persons, irrespective of their sexual orientations. At present, over 300 organisations employing a total of more than 500 000 employees have adopted the Code."

     "On support services for sexual minorities, the Government subsidises a 24-hour hotline operated by the Tung Wah Group of Hospitals (TWGHs) to provide easily accessible support, counselling and referral services to sexual minorities and their families, as well as relieving their stress and difficulties in everyday life. Since its establishment in January this year, the hotline has provided service to over 1 600 users."

     The spokesman pointed out that training resources targeting medical and healthcare professionals would be launched later this year to enhance their knowledge of and sensitivity towards sexual minorities as well as encouraging the concerned professional organisations to include the training resources as part of their regular pre-service or in-service training. The Government is also drawing up a charter on non-discrimination of sexual minorities covering various domains for voluntary adoption by service providers with a view to enhancing acceptance towards sexual minorities. 

     "We are conducting a further study on the experience of other jurisdictions in the use of legislative and administrative measures to eliminate discrimination. The study is expected to be completed in the first half of next year. The findings will provide more information to facilitate a more in-depth and rational discussion in the community on whether legislation should be introduced to protect people of different sexual orientations and transgenders against discrimination," the spokesman said.