Inequality and social problems in Hong Kong: the reasons for the broad support of the unrest

Abstract

Many young people in Hong Kong, supported by a large number of middle-aged citizens, are fighting the government in order to preserve Hong Kong’s liberty and relative autonomy from Beijing. However, the question still is why people in Hong Kong are so rebellious, whilst people in comparable Asian societies are not. But differently: Why do Hong Kong citizens continue to fight the regime despite their quite unexpected victory, the withdrawal of the extradition bill? Why do well-to-do bankers, lawyers and office clerks support a movement that is increasingly using violence to support their demands? The full understanding of the situation in Hong Kong requires to view the fight for political freedom in relation to other, deeper socio-economic factors.