Research Article
Historical and Modern Catalysts of the HK Refugee Dilemma
Abstract
To explain the causes of local “anti-refugee” sentiment propagated throughout local Hong Kong, this article delves into historical deadlocks – notably the cultural revolution and influx of Vietnamese boat people – that led the city’s attitudes to transition from relatively lax policies into strict regulations and negative media portrayal still present today. Yet, the present-day Hong Kong protests are brought into context to explain the slight generational gap in refugee sentiment. Finally, the Hong Kong refugee dilemma is brought into context compared with similar deadlocks in Norway and Germany to suggest an optimal mode of action moving forward.
Keywords: refugee; Hong Kong; immigration
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