How Hong Kong can actively shape the foreign policy debate

OpinionHow Hong Kong can actively shape the foreign policy debate3-MIN READ3-MIN0ListenJinghan (Michael) Zeng is a professor in the Department of Public and International Affairs at City University of Hong Kong.Published: 9:30am, 22 Apr 2026Updated: 10:34am, 22 Apr 2026A year ago, after more than a decade in the United Kingdom and several years in the United States – including time working for the United Nations in New York City – I returned to Asia and arrived in Hong Kong expecting it to also be a leading hub for international relations.Hong Kong is often described as a “superconnector” between China and the world. Yet in one crucial domain – the study and practice of international relations – the city remains a paradox: globally connected, intellectually vibrant but structurally peripheral.This is not for lack of talent or institutions. Hong Kong’s universities host internationally trained scholars, regional security and Asia-focused area studies. Their research circulates in leading journals and contributes to global debates.Select VoiceSelect Speed0.8x0.9x1.0x1.1x1.2x1.5x1.75x00:0000:001.00x