Youth Membership in Hong Kong Uniformed Groups Falls 8% in Five Years

Youth membership in Hong Kong’s uniformed groups has declined by 8% over the last five years, with figures dropping from 117,671 in 2020-21 to 108,551 in 2024-25, according to data from the Home and Youth Affairs Bureau. The trend, attributed to low birth rates and increased extracurricular options for students, persists despite steady government funding aimed at promoting positive values and national identity among young people.

Lawmakers Call for KPIs Amid Funding Concerns

The government allocated HK$86 million (US$11 million) in subsidies to 11 uniformed youth groups for the 2024-25 academic year. However, some lawmakers have proposed introducing key performance indicators (KPIs) to ensure prudent spending, arguing that funding should be tied to measurable outcomes.

This suggestion has sparked concerns among some organisations, which fear that linking financial support to membership numbers could stifle their growth and long-term development. The subsidies are intended to support all-round development and foster a sense of national and ethnic identity among youth.

Sharp Declines in Membership for Certain Groups

The membership decline has been uneven across the 11 groups. The Hong Kong Adventure Corps (HKAC), an army-oriented uniformed group, saw the steepest drop, with numbers plunging by 30% from 4,882 in 2020-21 to 3,403 in 2024-25. The Hong Kong Road Safety Patrol also experienced a significant decline, losing more than 22% of its members during the same period.

Other prominent groups, including the Scout Association of Hong Kong, the Guides Association, and the Boys’ Brigade, reported falling membership as well. These organisations, some of which have historically been among the city’s largest uniformed groups, are facing challenges in retaining youth participation.

Some Groups Buck the Trend

Not all uniformed groups are experiencing declines. Membership in six organisations, including the Association of Hong Kong Flag-guards and the Hong Kong Red Cross Youth, has grown over the past five years, highlighting a mixed picture for the sector.

Why It Matters

The decline in youth membership raises questions about the effectiveness of government subsidies and the ability of uniformed groups to adapt to changing demographics and interests. With lawmakers pushing for KPIs, the debate over how best to allocate public funds and support youth development is likely to intensify.

Source: South China Morning Post