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Racial Discrimination
Stamp Warning for Taiwanese Visitors(Go Top)
Taiwanese officials had criticized the stamping of Taiwanese travelers' document with warnings not to embarrass the SAR as "offensive".
Since June, all visitors disregard of sex, age or status, are warned they cannot represent Taiwan or its agencies, display symbols of organizations, fly flags, display emblems or engage in activities that embarrass the SAR Government.
Previously, the conditions were contained on applications for Hong Kong travel permits all Taiwanese needed to complete before visiting.
After criticism and appeal from Taiwanese officials and Hong Kong Tourist association, the Immigration Department agreed to stop the new practice from 20 July 1998. Conditions will also be removed from application forms.
Foreign Affairs Department of Taiwanese Government said that it's unfriendly to put a stamp of warning on travelers' documents. They would reflect their dissatisfaction to the SAR Government.
The tourism industry of Hong Kong has appealed to immigration authorities to stop stamping Taiwanese travelers' documents. Howard Young, legislator who represents the tourism industry said that the practice was degrading and unnecessary. Representatives of the Hong Kong Tourist Council also flew to Taiwan to explain the matter.
Some Taiwanese travelers opined that the practice is a kind of discrimination against Taiwanese and affected the image of Hong Kong.
July 1998
Survey found Racial Minorities Discriminated in Hong Kong(Go Top)
70% respondents of a survey said they are being discriminated or treated rudely, mainly in employment, housing and using facilities.
The survey, conducted by the Human Rights Monitor in July 1998, found discrimination in employment is the areas most complained about by ethnic minorities. 37 out of 82 people experienced or witnessed discrimination encountered it when someone was being hired, fired or promoted.
Admission to facilities, with 27 cases, was the next most discriminated area, then followed by sale or delivery of goods and services, with 16 cases.
The group distributed 800 questionnaire in English and Chinese in Statute Square, Tsimshatsui and other areas where minorities gather. 123 survey forms were collected and about 60% from Filipinos, others included Europeans, Indians and Pakistans and so on. Many respondents cited cases of rudeness towards Filipinos, including drivers on buses and sales staff in shops.
Nearly 80% respondents support legal protection against discrimination. Law Yuk Kai, director of Human Rights Monitor, urged the Government to pass law on equal opportunities based on the ground of race. He said the Government's excuse that it should educate rather than legislate is misconceived.
July 1998