Hong Kong’s Lingnan University student union ceases operations after 6 decades

The student union of Hong Kong’s Lingnan University has announced its decision to dissolve after nearly six decades of operation, citing "changes in the situation both on and off campus." This marks the latest in a series of closures among such organizations in recent years. In a social media post, the union revealed it had passed a resolution to dissolve after a recent joint meeting.

The decision signifies that only two of Hong Kong’s public universities still maintain active student unions, with the University of Hong Kong's student union operating outside campus premises. Established in 1967, the Lingnan University union upheld unity and mutual help among students while engaging with the university to promote well-being.

It also addressed social issues, fostering members' social awareness and responsibility, contributing to Hong Kong society's progress. The union's dissolution was due to recent changes, though specific factors were not stated. The organization faced challenges, including the arrest of four members who allegedly stole HK$1 million (US$127,450) to cover personal debts and investment accounts.

Following the arrests, the university distanced itself from the union, accusing its members of actions inconsistent with the institution's core values. Hong Kong's student unions, once centers of political activism, have been affected by heightened scrutiny since the enactment of national security laws. Currently, only the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology maintains an active student union among the city's eight publicly funded institutions.

The City University of Hong Kong's union operates from a separate location after being ordered to vacate its campus premises in 2022. Earlier this year, the University of Hong Kong's student publication ceased operations, following the university's severing ties with its student union in 2021 due to the latter's leaders advocating terrorism.

Baptist University also suspended its student union's operations after removing messages advocating for justice in connection with the Tai Po fire, which led to police arrests for alleged sedition. The University of Hong Kong's student union disbanded in 2021 after the university cut ties, citing security concerns. Two of the university's nine smaller college student unions persist, but the others have disbanded.

Polytechnic University terminated its relationship with its student union in 2022, reclaiming the body's facilities. The Education University of Hong Kong stopped recognizing its student union in 2022.