Hong Kong had a British colonial form of government for much of its history. Important changes began when the children of the postwar immigrants grew up, and demanded a more responsive, transparent and clean government.

During the 1970s, a series of peaceful protests led to official status for the Chinese language, strong effective measures against corruption, and systematic public consultations on government policies. Speaking up for rights in a peaceful and organized way became a feature of Hong Kong’s community life.

A modern professional corps of Hong Kong Chinese civil servants, chosen from among the best and brightest graduates of the school system, emerged to administer the territory efficiently, responsively, and with openness.