香港的社會福利模式、特徵和功能

As a result of sixty more years of exploration after the Second World War, Hong Kong has evolved its own unique welfare system. This system is too rich and complex to be summarized as a residual welfare model. Under this system, some benefits are allocated on an egalitarian and citizenship basis. Meanwhile some programmes serve the non-rich classes. The harshest treatment is reserved for people who cannot help themselves and are in need of financial assistance. It is an undeniable fact that the public sector plays a dominant role in welfare provision. It is argued that the Hong Kong welfare system may be lean but certainly not mean. It has also demonstrated a considerable level of effectiveness and stability. Its perpetuation can be traced to support across different social classes. After a long evolution of improvement and enhancement through practice, the system demonstrates many positive functions as well as negative consequents.