Governance
Sex Discrimination Ordinance (SDO)
Hong Kong's primary legislation prohibiting discrimination on the ground of sex, marital status, or pregnancy, including in employment and pay.
Definition
The Sex Discrimination Ordinance (Cap. 480) is a key piece of legislation in Hong Kong enacted in 1996. It makes it unlawful to discriminate against a person on the ground of sex, marital status, or pregnancy in various areas of activity, including employment and the terms and conditions of employment. This ordinance forms the legal basis for challenging discriminatory pay practices and is enforced by the Equal Opportunities Commission, serving as the foundation for equal pay principles in the region.