NGO warns of alarming rise in child abuse cases

The NGO Against Child Abuse has warned of a troubling increase in child abuse cases, urging legislative changes and enhanced action. Official statistics reveal the number of suspected abuse cases surged from 940 in 2020 to 1,354 in 2025. Notably, sexual abuse cases reached parity with physical abuse for the first time last year, both rising to 501.

The organization attributes this rise to several factors, including the lingering effects of Covid, increased online activity, heightened economic pressure, landmark court decisions, and growing public awareness. Professor Patrick Ip, an executive member, highlighted that abused children face higher risks of self-harm, suicidal thoughts, and conditions like ADHD and obesity. He emphasized the importance of early intervention, urging institutions to collaborate.

Professor Cheung, chairperson of Against Child Abuse, noted a significant uptick in public inquiries after the Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse Ordinance took effect in January. The legislation mandates 25 specific professions to report suspected abuse to authorities, with the government receiving 176 reports in the first five months.

Professor Cheung praised educational outreach to professionals and the public, endorsing government proposals to criminalize persistent sexual abuse of children and cyberflashing as part of broader sexual offence reforms. A public consultation on overhauling sexual offence laws concluded last month, with an amendment bill expected in the Legislative Council by year-end.