Hong Kong changes how it defines poverty but experts express doubt about move

Hong Kong will no longer define poverty based solely on economic factors, the government has said, prompting calls from experts for multiple measurements to be adopted, arguing the new strategy makes it harder to objectively assess the city’s overall situation.

The government said on Thursday it had adopted a new 21-indicator framework in its efforts to help targeted needy groups. It said the previous metric had overestimated the number of underprivileged people by ignoring billions of dollars spent on public housing and healthcare.

In a 224-page report, the government also raised the concept of “social transfer values” for the first time, referring to how much income a family effectively gains by not having to pay full price for public services.

Chief Secretary Eric Chan Kwok-ki said authorities had broadened the definition of poverty beyond residents’ economic situation alone, highlighting the limitations of the income-based poverty line previously used to assess levels.

“The word ‘poverty’ should not be viewed from the economic aspect alone – this is the focus of our targeted poverty alleviation strategy,” said Chan, who leads the Commission on Poverty.

“We hope to enable every resident in need to at least have a basic life secured, which is an economic aspect. What we are doing this time is more than economic, including emotional support, living space and support for children, which is all-round.”