Women's Commission

The Women's Commission was set up on January 15, 2001 as a central mechanism to promote the well-being and interests of women in Hong Kong. It is tasked to identify all women's needs and address matters of concern to women in a holistic and systematic manner. It will also develop a long-term vision and strategy for the development and advancement of women in Hong Kong. The Women's Commission takes a strategic overview over women's issues, advises the Government on policies and initiatives that are of concern to women and seeks to ensure that women's perspectives are factored in (or mainstreamed) during policy formulation.

The establishment of the Women's Commission is a milestone in efforts to promote the advancement of women in Hong Kong. Chaired by Mrs Sophie Leung Lau Yau-fun, a non-official and a member of the Legislative Council, and comprising another 21 members, the commission has laid down as its mission 'To enable women in Hong Kong to fully realise their due status, rights and opportunities in all aspects of life'. It has identified three priority areas of action: gender mainstreaming, empowerment of women and public education. Special task forces have been set up to take forward work in these areas.

In respect of gender mainstreaming, the aim is to integrate women's needs and perspectives in public policies, programmes and legislation, where appropriate. In 2002, it is planned to test the concept and evaluate the results in several policy areas. As regards empowerment of women, five focus areas have been identified — health, education, safety at home and in public places, economic well-being, and women in decision-making and social participation. The commission will look into ways to better equip women for life's challenges and to create a more congenial societal environment for women to develop themselves. Furthermore, public education and publicity programmes will be launched to reduce gender prejudices and stereotyping as well as to raise public awareness of women-related issues.

To familiarise civil servants with gender and women's issues, the commission organised an introductory seminar for officers from various bureaux and departments in February. Furthermore, to enhance communication between the commission and all sectors of the community, an open forum was held on July 21 to discuss the future direction and work of the commission. The response was enthusiastic and positive.

The Women's Commission will strive to attain the realisation of women's full potential and the elimination of gender prejudices. It works in collaboration with all parties in seeking to achieve a more prosperous and better future for all.