The recent wave of resignations from the Social Workers Registration Board in Hong Kong has caused a major shakeup in the industry. Chairman Ng Yut-ming stepped down, along with six other elected members, leaving only one elected member on the board. These resignations come amidst controversy over proposed amendments to the board, which would increase the number of government-appointed members.
The amendments aim to give the board more power to handle the registration and discipline of social workers, especially in cases involving national security offences. The government’s restructuring of the board has been met with criticism from some members, who see it as a move to suppress the autonomy and voice of social workers.
Despite criticism, the government maintains that the amendments are necessary to ensure professional ethical standards are upheld and to prevent the board from shielding offenders. Lawmaker Peter Douglas Koon Ho-ming called the resignations “irrational,” urging professionals not to adopt a hostile attitude towards the reforms.
As the sector grapples with these changes, it remains to be seen how the amendments will impact the profession in the long run. The future of the Social Workers Registration Board hangs in the balance as lawmakers prepare for the second and third reading of the Social Workers Registration (Amendment) Bill 2024.
Chairman Ng Yut-ming has stepped down just days before the expected passage of the legislative amendments to reform the body on Wednesday.