In today's world, it's a harsh reality that we often take our safety for granted until it's compromised. This rings particularly true when comparing personal safety in Hong Kong to the current situation in the West.

The Disturbing Trend of Crime in London

In London, a troubling epidemic of phone theft has prompted desperate measures from storefronts. Major retailers like Currys have partnered with the Metropolitan Police to introduce a peculiar campaign. They’ve started painting purple lines on streets with the message 'Mind the Grab', warning pedestrians of thieves snatching phones. However, locals are less than impressed, arguing that gimmicks won’t solve the problem—they demand stronger police presence.

For Hongkongers who have moved to the UK, this shift from feeling secure to constantly looking over their shoulders is jarring and highlights just how different safety can be.

Eye-Opening Statistics: Hong Kong's Safety Advantage

A recent survey by Bastille Post revealed that a staggering 90.3% of Hong Kong residents feel either very safe or quite safe living in the city. Furthermore, 86.3% believe their city is safer than most around the world, with 74.8% not worrying about heading home at night.

But let’s dive into the numbers for a clearer picture. In the year ending September 2024, the UK recorded over 5 million non-fraud crimes, with violent crimes totaling 2.05 million—a violent crime rate of 37.4 per 1,000 people. In stark contrast, Hong Kong reported just 10,500 violent crimes, equating to merely 1.4 per 1,000.

The difference extends to theft as well; the UK saw 1.8 million thefts—32.8 per 1,000 people—while Hong Kong reported only 24,000 thefts and burglaries combined, leading to a shocking 3.2 per 1,000. The UK’s theft rate is ten times higher than in Hong Kong.

A Vicious Cycle of Crime in the West

Personal accounts put these statistics into perspective. Stories abound, such as a doctor in London losing his expensive Rolex, only for police to downplay the situation when he attempted to file a report. Police often avoid engaging in minor crime cases, as they are overwhelmed and underfunded.

The Western approach to crime has become a dangerous cycle. As violent crime rates soar, authorities, plagued by staffing shortages and overpopulated jails, are increasingly reluctant to tackle even minor offenses.

In places like California, the lax attitude towards shoplifting—where thefts under $950 are treated lightly—has led to a shocking rise in crimes, leaving the public feeling increasingly helpless.

The Political Consequences: The Appeal of Tough Policies

The fear surrounding personal safety has also influenced politics in the West. Voters, anxious about rising crime, are drawn to tough-talking leaders who promise action—even if that means controversial policies and crackdowns.

For residents of Hong Kong thinking about moving abroad, one thing is crystal clear: they may have to brace themselves for a world of crime and insecurity that feels worlds away from the safety they’ve grown accustomed to.