Key Points

Council staff and others working to support the integration of Hong Kong BN(O)s should note the potential tensions between arriving Hongkongers and existing Chinese communities. Although most Hongkongers are ethnically Chinese – and often identify as such – most consider themselves Hongkongers, rather than Chinese or citizens of the People’s Republic of China (PRC). Read more about the political background here.  

Many Hongkongers have left Hong Kong due to the increasingly repressive influence of the Chinese state, the regressive National Security Law, and the restrictions on political freedoms and human rights. Given that many are fleeing some form Chinese influence – whether in the education system, politics, the press, or the economy – they may exercise caution when interacting with established Chinese communities. Council officers should also note the potential hostility amongst more established Chinese communities towards arriving Hongkongers. 

Signposting Hongkongers to Chinese community groups or resources in Mandarin may not be culturally appropriate and may lead to Hongkongers turning away from council resources, especially if they feel they are misunderstood or mistaken as Chinese. It is important to bear this distinct cultural identity in mind when engaging with Hong Kong BN(O) arrivals.

It is also important to acknowledge the cultural, linguistic, and political differences between Hongkongers and Chinese. Due to the British colonial legacy, most Hongkongers consider themselves much more Western than their Chinese counterparts. For example, the schooling system in Hong Kong is closely modelled on the UK, and English – along with Chinese – is one of the official languages of Hong Kong. Learn more about the key linguistic differences between Hong Kong and China here. 

If you are unsure how to engage with Hongkongers or have any questions about the above, please contact us at hongkongBNO@cosla.gov.uk.

Hostility Towards Hongkongers

Since the Hong Kong BN(O) visa route opened in 2021, there have been reports of intimidation and threatening behaviour towards arriving Hongkongers – particularly prominent pro-democracy figures. We are also aware of reports that indicate that there are those within the established Chinese communities that are actively hostile towards arriving Hongkongers. 

Many Hongkongers in the UK will continue to feel a strong affinity with Hong Kong and the pro-democracy movement. Due to the strong protest culture in Hong Kong, they are also likely to engage in peaceful protests. These protests can, however, provoke counterprotests from pro-Beijing groups, which can potentially lead to tensions and flare-ups. 

Council officers should note these sensitivities and ensure that Police Scotland is aware of any instances of race hate, discrimination, intimidation, harassment, or other forms of violence towards Hongkongers.