Diversity and Interaction: An Ecological Discourse Analysis of the Forewords in Hong Kong’s Policy Addresses (2020–2023)

Abstract

The study conducts an Ecological Discourse Analysis (EDA) of the forewords of Policy Addresses (2020–2023) issued by the Chief Executives (CEs) of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), aiming to investigate harmonious societal factors that facilitate the HKSAR’s transition from “a governance phase” to “a prosperity period” (Shu, 2023, p. 68). Guided by the Ecosophy of “Diversity and Harmony; Interaction and Coexistence”, the research employs an integrated ecological thematic-based approach, focusing on evaluating two social-ecological parameters: Diversity and Interaction. Diversity is achieved via the semantic actualization of Participant Role Themes (PRTs), revealing bidirectional harmonious relationships between the central and regional governments, the government and its citizens, the administrative branch and the legislative institution, as well as citizens and the legislative organization. Interaction is accomplished through the visualization of PRTs and the examination of Thematic Progression (TP), confirming the coexistence of all social relations that contribute to HKSAR’s advancement. Among these relations, this study finds that governmental guidance serves as a pivotal factor in promoting Hong Kong’s social harmony, with its active role in coordinating all social factors to address crises and foster prosperity. This “appropriately proactive governance” philosophy differs from the Neoliberal-influenced approach of “positive non-interventionism”. Such shift reflects the government’s efforts to adopt strategies tailored to Hong Kong’s local conditions while deeply rooted in Chinese cultural values, suggesting a promising path for future development. Overall, this study enhances the applications of EDA for analyzing social-related discourses, proposing a harmony-oriented framework for interpreting socio-ecological transformations.