Exploring critical family issues in Cross-border Marriages: Four women from Tin Shui Wai

Abstract

In 2006, over 40% of the marriages and newborn children in Hong Kong belonged to cross-border families. As the number of cross-border marriages increases, the number of divorces in these marriages is also expected to increase. Critical issues concerning cross-border marriages include (a) financial stress and lack of social support, (b) domestic violence, and (c) disparity in the legal and social systems between China and Hong Kong. These issues were explored through 4 case studies of the lives of women living in Tin Shui Wan. The analysis of the cases revealed how the relationship of the couple affected the parenting of the children. Recommendations for reforms, including family mediation and parenting plans, are put forward to enhance the resolution of custody disputes, even with allegations of domestic violence, upon the dissolution of cross-border marriages.