Hong Kong: calls for madatory regulation of counsellors
Experts in Hong Kong are advocating for the establishment of a statutory registration system for counsellors following a recent misconduct case that exposed regulatory shortcomings. Currently, individuals can identify themselves as counsellors without formal qualifications or legal oversight, posing potential risks to public safety. Professor Chui Yat-hung, president of the Hong Kong Professional Counselling Association, highlighted a case where a counsellor expelled for misconduct was rehired elsewhere because the professional body lacked the legal authority to disclose the individual's identity publicly. The absence of a formal registration system leaves professional organizations powerless beyond internal disciplinary actions, underscoring the need for legal reforms to protect clients and uphold industry standards.