Anti-Human Trafficking Efforts in Hong Kong

Abstract: This study investigates how civil society actors contribute to anti-human trafficking efforts in Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR), China, hereinafter referred to as Hong Kong. Thereby, the direct and indirect roles of NGOs and migrant domestic workers community leaders in such efforts are identified. In addition, differences and similarities between the respective actors’ roles are examined. Constructivist grounded theory is applied as the underlying methodological framework while the method of qualitative research interviewing and more specifically semi-structured interviews with Hong Kong-based NGOs as well as community leaders is employed. The grounded theory-inspired analysis is conducted in the light of empowerment and agency as ‘sensitizing concepts’. It is argued that civil society actors and particularly community leaders are often the first point of contact for victims of trafficking and persons at risk of being trafficked. Thus, their invaluable role in victim identification, assistance and protection as part of overarching anti-human trafficking efforts is recognized. This is especially relevant in the context of Hong Kong as governmental support in such efforts is absent. Instead, civil society actors take precedence and become ‘advocates for change’.