An NGO in Hong Kong is urging authorities to update sexual offences legislation following a notable increase in sexual violence cases involving private images and intimate partners in the city. RainLily, an anti-sexual violence group, released the Retrospective Study Statistical Report 2019-2023 on October 29, 2024, revealing a consistent rise in sexual violence cases over the past 15 years. The organization analyzed nearly 2,000 cases handled in the last five years, showing a significant escalation in the number of cases.
Between 2009 and 2013, RainLily recorded 1,074 cases, which increased to 1,336 between 2014 and 2018, and further rose to 1,984 between 2019 and 2023. Among the cases in the past five years, 23% involved non-contact sexual assault, including image-based violence and verbal sexual harassment. The number of image-based sexual violence cases involving intimate partners increased, with 45% of cases between 2019 and 2023 having predators who were intimate partners. Additionally, cases perpetrated by victims’ current or former partners saw an increase.
Doris Chong, the executive director of RainLily, highlighted a societal misunderstanding regarding consent, especially in cases where private images were shared without consent. She emphasized the need for clearer public education and legal reforms to promote respect for individual autonomy. The study by RainLily classified cases into penetrative sexual assault, non-penetrative sexual assault, and non-contact sexual assault, broadening the definition to encompass various non-consensual acts.
The study revealed that many sexual violence victims in Hong Kong delayed seeking help, with an average delay of approximately 4.2 years before reaching out for assistance. The reporting rate of sexual violence incidents declined over the years. Albert Yau, senior research officer at RainLily, expressed concerns about the withdrawal of cases by complainants during judicial proceedings, indicating a lack of sufficient protection and diminishing victims’ confidence in seeking justice.
RainLily called on the Hong Kong government to update outdated sexual offences legislation and prosecution policies, including introducing a clear definition of consent and expanding the definition of rape. The organization suggested launching sexual violence prevention education programs and making sexuality education compulsory in schools. Addressing issues such as informed consent, image-based sexual violence, and cyber literacy was deemed essential.
The article also mentioned previous cases of sexual violence in public areas, where legislation gaps concerning sexual harassment and assault were highlighted. The need for stronger judicial support measures and enhanced reporting, investigation, and prosecution procedures for sexual offences was emphasized to reduce the stress faced by victims. Overall, the call for modernizing legislation and providing comprehensive education and support for victims of sexual violence remains crucial in addressing the alarming rise in such cases in Hong Kong.
