No ‘hard sell’ in patriotic education, says Chief Secretary

A government working group set up to promote patriotic education in Hong Kong has established that soft approaches are the way to foster a sense of identification among youth while collaborating with patriotic education groups to organize activities related to patriotism and love for the country, said Chief Secretary Eric Chan Kwok-ki.

His comments came as the Working Group on Patriotic Education concluded its first meeting on Monday. The working group was set up in April to bring education in the city in line with the new Patriotic Education Law of the People’s Republic of China.

The SAR government said earlier that the working group was set up under the Constitution and Basic Law Promotion Steering Committee to coordinate the work of government departments and non-governmental organizations in advancing patriotic education.

Speaking to the press after the meeting, Chan said the working group has established a clear direction that the promotion of patriotism will make reference to the Patriotic Education Law while also adapting to the specific circumstances of Hong Kong.

The goal is to make patriotism and love for Hong Kong a core value in the city, ensuring that the spirit of patriotism takes root in Hong Kong society and resonates with the people. It should also foster a sense of self-awareness in safeguarding national sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity, said Chan.

The top official also noted that the SAR government has no plans to legislate for patriotic education, with the government hoping to promote understanding of the country among citizens, students, and young people through policy measures or activities.

“No legal consequences should be associated with this initiative,” Chan emphasized.

Meanwhile, lawmaker Starry Lee Wai-king, also convenor of the working group, said the working group has decided to establish four sub-groups to carry out coordinated work and research in the areas of school education, local communities, media promotion, as well as historical, political, economic, and cultural aspects.

Lee also said the working group will work closely with government bureaux and departments to ensure elements of patriotic education are included in celebratory events for the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.