While official statistics paint a promising picture of decreasing homelessness in Hong Kong, a deeper examination reveals a more complex and nuanced reality. The reported decline in registered street sleepers, attributed to increased housing supply and improved conditions, should not lull the community into complacency. Instead, it should serve as a catalyst for renewed efforts to address the multifaceted needs of the city's most vulnerable population.

According to data released by the Social Welfare Department, the number of registered street sleepers in Hong Kong has fallen by a significant 40% to a ten-year low of 795 in the 2023-24 financial year. This figure represents a substantial decrease from the 1,441 individuals registered in the previous year, suggesting a positive trend in addressing homelessness. The latest numbers further reinforce this trend, with 672 people registered as homeless as of December.

The improvement in housing supply has been cited as a contributing factor to this decline. By the end of last year, the homeless population had access to 228 short-term hostel places, with an average occupancy rate of 73%. The availability of transitional homes, primarily located in the New Territories, has also provided temporary shelter for some individuals experiencing homelessness.

However, the encouraging official figures are contradicted by the experiences of frontline workers at ImpactHK, a non-governmental organization dedicated to serving the homeless population. ImpactHK reports an increased demand for its services, suggesting that the government's statistics may not accurately reflect the true extent of homelessness in Hong Kong. This discrepancy raises concerns about the potential underreporting of homelessness and the need for a more comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the issue.

Social workers believe that the practice of evicting homeless individuals from public areas may be contributing to the discrepancy between official figures and the reality on the ground. Rather than resolving homelessness, these evictions may simply be pushing homeless individuals into less visible locations, such as areas near housing estates, shopping centers, or even public toilets. This displacement not only fails to address the underlying causes of homelessness but also makes it more difficult to provide support and assistance to those in need.

Furthermore, a legacy of distrust towards authorities may discourage many homeless individuals from registering with the Social Welfare Department. Past incidents of mistreatment and mishandling of belongings by law enforcement agencies have eroded trust and created a reluctance to engage with official channels. The 2019 clearance operation, in which police and the Leisure and Cultural Services Department were held liable for mishandling the belongings of nine men, serves as a stark reminder of the potential for abuse and mistreatment.

The jailing of six police officers in October for framing a homeless man for drug possession and destroying evidence further underscores the deep-seated distrust that exists within the homeless community. These incidents highlight the urgent need for greater accountability and sensitivity on the part of law enforcement agencies when interacting with vulnerable populations.

Addressing the complex needs of the homeless population requires a shift towards homeless-friendly policies that prioritize support, compassion, and respect. It is crucial to recognize that homelessness is often the result of a confluence of factors, including poverty, mental health issues, substance abuse, and lack of access to affordable housing. Effective solutions must address these underlying causes and provide comprehensive support services tailored to the individual needs of each person experiencing homelessness.

ImpactHK's experience highlights the importance of addressing the psychological issues that often accompany homelessness. Even among street sleepers who are provided with a place to stay, approximately 30% return to homelessness due to unaddressed mental health challenges. This underscores the need for accessible and comprehensive mental health services for the homeless population, including counseling, therapy, and psychiatric care.

Furthermore, many homeless individuals turn down offers to relocate to temporary flats in the New Territories because they do not want to lose touch with important friends and acquaintances at the heart of the city. This highlights the importance of social connections and the need to provide housing options that allow individuals to maintain their support networks and sense of community.

The encouraging decline in official homelessness figures should not be interpreted as a sign that the problem has been solved. Instead, it should serve as a call to action for the community to remain vigilant and proactive in supporting the homeless population. It is essential to ensure that homeless individuals are not simply pushed out of sight and out of mind, but rather provided with the resources and support they need to rebuild their lives and reintegrate into society.

In conclusion, while the declining numbers of registered street sleepers in Hong Kong may be encouraging, a more comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the issue is essential. The community must remain diligent in addressing the complex needs of the homeless population, ensuring that they are not simply displaced or forgotten. By prioritizing homeless-friendly policies, providing comprehensive support services, and fostering a culture of compassion and respect, Hong Kong can create a more inclusive and equitable society for all its residents.

By Lewis Koch

The author is a current affairs commentator.

The views do not necessarily reflect those of Orange News.

Cover Photo: AFP