Gender and Change in Hong Kong

The 1980s and 1990s represent a critical historical juncture for Hong Kong, as it underwent important social, political, and economic transformations. This period of transition, during which the state worked to redefine itself, significantly altered the role and status of Hong Kong women. The modern condition of Hong Kong has been produced by the joint effects of the colonial state, the capitalist economy and the Hong Kong Chinese society. This process has proved favourable for some women but also has had adverse consequences for others. It has resulted in the development of groups of women with different class interests, and has made the citizens in this colony conflicted in their attitudes towards the female sex.

Gender and Change in Hong Kong analyzes women’s changing identities and instrumental roles amidst the complex interaction of three important forces, namely, globalization, postcolonialism, and Chinese patriarchy. The chapters examine the issues from a number of perspectives to consider legal changes, political participation, the situation of working-class and professional women, sexuality, religion, and international migration.

This incisive volume offers sophisticated theoretical discussions and original empirical findings, and will appeal to a wide range of scholars and students in gender and women’s studies, postcolonialism, globalization, and Asian studies.

Eliza W. Y. Lee is Associate Professor in the Department of Government and Public Administration, The Chinese University of Hong Kong.