In a sugnificant move to protect vulnerable children, the Hong Kong government announced Friday that it will equip residential homes with AI-powered surveillance cameras to detect and prevent abuse.
The decision comes in the wake of a damning 2021 scandal involving multiple staff members at the Children’s Residential Home operated by the Hong Kong Society for the Protection of Children (HKSPC).
Welfare Secretary Chris Sun said the government has appropriated funds from the Lotteries Fund to enable the HKSPC to implement the AI surveillance technology starting next June.
“This will help the Society for the Protection of Children improve the quality of care given to children and increase their efficiency in monitoring childcare services,” Sun said at a seminar on child protection.
The AI-equipped cameras will be programmed to automatically raise an alarm if they detect inappropriate behavior, such as children being slapped or shaken.
HKSPC director Subrina Chow explained that the organization already reviews surveillance footage on a weekly basis, with an initial review by home staff followed by a second assessment by a child safeguarding consultant.
“There are two levels of monitoring,” Chow said. “The AI technology will supplement our existing efforts to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the children in our care.”
The announcement was welcomed by child welfare advocates, who have long called for stronger measures to protect children in residential facilities.
“This is a significant step forward in leveraging technology to enhance oversight and accountability,” said Sarah Wong, director of the nonprofit Children’s Rights Association. “We hope this sets a precedent for other residential homes to follow suit.”
With the new AI surveillance system set to go live next year, Hong Kong authorities are signaling their commitment to safeguarding the most vulnerable members of society.
