HKFYG Youth Research Centre announces latest “Youth Value Indicators” survey results

HKFYG Youth Research Centre announces latest “Youth Value Indicators” survey results

Revealing a rebound in youth confidence and interest
in opportunities beyond Hong Kong, despite declining
engagement with social, national and global issues

The Youth Research Centre of The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups (HKFYG) today (17 February) released findings from its latest “Youth Value Indicators 2023” survey. The study, which gathered the perspectives from 522 respondents aged 15 to 39, revealed increased youth confidence and aspirations to pursue opportunities in the Mainland and elsewhere in the world. However, it also highlighted a concerning decline in social participation and awareness of national and global issues.

The survey was conducted from 13 November to 8 December 2023 using random sampling through telephone interviews. Respondents were asked a range of questions about personal values, work, education, politics and society. This marks the 21st edition of the “Youth Value Indicators” survey since its inception in 1997, as part of the HKFYG’s effort to monitor and analyse local youth trends.

Increased self-confidence and pursuit of opportunities

Compared to previous surveys, respondents showed growing confidence in self-abilities, particularly biliteracy, trilingualism and creativity. Confidence levels in English and putonghua increased, reaching 61.2% and 57.7%, respectively. Moreover, 60.7% considered themselves creative, demonstrating an upward trend since 2018.

Furthermore, more young people expressed openness and willingness to explore opportunities beyond Hong Kong. The percentage of those considering development in the Mainland increased from 29.0% in 2022 to 41.6% in 2023. Similarly, that of those considering working overseas increased from 62.5% to 71.1%.

Nevertheless, a slight upward trend emerged in youth pessimism. The proportion of young people reporting a negative outlook on life increased from 24.6% in 2020 to 32.6% in 2023. Meanwhile, the survey introduced the question, “You feel like no one can help you when in difficulty,” for the first time this year. Over one-third (33.6%) of respondents agreed with the statement, underscoring the continued need for society-wide attention and support for youth mental health.

Improved perception of society and political efficacy

The survey also revealed a significant improvement in youth perception of society. Satisfaction with public safety increased substantially from 38.2% in 2019 to 66.4% in 2023, and confidence in government integrity, from 22.0% in 2021 to 64.9% in 2023. Notably, 57.9% of respondents expressed confidence in the rule of law.

Regarding political efficacy, 51.5% of respondents agreed that public opinion can influence policy; 51.2%, that voting is useful and effective; and 76.6%, that social policies concern them (up from 32.3%, 35.5% and 67.4% in 2021, respectively). In addition, 44.1% concurred that political parties can represent public opinion (up from 30.0% in 2022). Despite the positive trends, the survey identified room for improvement in youth confidence regarding political participation and policy influence.

Decreased awareness of national and global issues

Notwithstanding, youth engagement reached record lows in charitable donations and organisational membership, while participation level in voluntary work remained low.

Additionally, a decline in youth awareness of national and global issues was found. While young people cited growing knowledge of national history, from 48.8% in 2021 to 57.7% in 2023, they also showed a declining interest in national development, from 86.8% in 2017 to 64.1% in 2023. A similar downward trend was observed in global awareness, with the percentage of those expressing disinterest more than doubling from 18.3% in 2018 to 40.2% in 2023.

The HKFYG’s Youth Research Centre interprets the findings as indicative of growing youth confidence and aspirations to seek opportunities outside Hong Kong. Enhanced political efficacy, improved social perception, increased social stability and continued investment in youth development by the government and other sectors are factors associated with this trend.

Nonetheless, the declining engagement with social, national and global issues suggests a shift towards personal development. Yet, youth social responsibility and civic engagement remain essential in the interest of sustainable social growth. The HKFYG therefore recommends continued stakeholder support for youth development initiatives, such that young people can further their growth and development while building more positive connections with society. It is through caring for their communities, engaging in public affairs and broadening their global horizons that they can maximise their social impact and prepare themselves for future challenges.

Since 1997, the HKFYG has conducted the “Youth Value Indicators” survey and published research findings to provide insights into youth trends in Hong Kong. Detailed trends, findings and analyses are available online for public access. For details, please visit yrc.hkfyg.org.hk.

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