Renunciation, De‐Stigmatisation and Prevention of Crime in Hong Kong

Abstract: Governments around the world seek to devise methods and mechanisms for preventing crime as well as rehabilitating offenders. The Triad Renunciation Scheme in Hong Kong presents an interesting case study of a positive innovation in this area. The scheme was intended to arrest the growth of triad societies by allowing a chance for members to sever ties with illegal organisations. While considerable interest was generated, political and economic pressures defined the scheme as minimally successful. The Triad Renunciation Tribunal could not be effective because of its temporary nature and shortage of staff. However, the scheme demonstrated the willingness of the government of Hong Kong to deal with the problem of stigmatisation and prevent and control criminal activities through a novel approach, using an independent tribunal outside the network of traditional anti‐crime agencies.