Cricket Hong Kong Implements Anti-Sexual Harassment Code

Cricket Hong Kong has implemented an anti-harassment code for players, player support personnel and staff "in the wake of recent sexual abuse claims by hurdler Vera Lui Lai-yiu," according to Nazvi Careem of the SOUTH CHINA MORNING POST. The code is a comprehensive manual that "not only covers" sexual harassment but also discriminatory and condescending behavior involving race, skin color, sexual orientation, age, religion and other factors. CHK Interim CEO Justin Pearce said that the body was "initially in the process of formulating a child protection policy but decided to expand the code to include all forms of harassment after Lui’s revelations." It came into effect on Dec. 15. Pearce: "It was actually due to the furor that arose around the athletics. ... The policy was drafted with guidance from the Australian and New Zealand codes." He added that relevant staff from cricket clubs in Hong Kong are "required to attend workshops on how to stay clear of harassment during the course of their activities" (SCMP, 12/27).