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Mathias* was a toddler when he arrived in Hong Kong. He had been unwell since infancy, and his parents had travelled with him across their home country in South Asia to seek diagnosis and treatment. When Mathias’ father was assaulted and tortured and the family started receiving death threats, they had no choice but to flee.
Soon after arriving in Hong Kong, Mathias was hospitalised and diagnosed with a severe and incurable illness requiring frequent plasma transfusions and other specialist interventions. With access to Hong Kong’s high-quality health services, his condition stabilised. However, the same treatment is not accessible in his home country, and interruption of care could result in rapid and irreversible deterioration, severe suffering and death.
When the family approached Asylum Services & Knowledge (then Justice Centre Hong Kong) in 2018, their protection claims had been refused. We helped obtain medical evidence from specialists in Hong Kong and experts familiar with healthcare provision in Mathias’ home country. The evidence showed the grave risks he would face if removed. Yet the decision refusing the family’s claim gave only passing mention to his medical condition, without meaningful consideration of its implications.
We helped Mathias’ family understand their legal options and supported their decision to pursue judicial review and a subsequent claim. Engaging a pro bono legal team, we compiled medical evidence, prepared grounds for review and successfully challenged the refusal of legal aid.
In August 2026, 8 years after medical evidence was put forward, Mathias finally succeeded in his claim and was granted protection!
The outcome of a protection claim can mean the difference between life and death. For Mathias and his parents, the knowledge that he will not be removed from the treatment he needs is life-changing. It means safety, stability and the possibility of a future.
However, the relief is tempered by the family’s continuing struggle to secure protection, so they can remain together with Mathias. As they pursue legal options to remain, ASK continues to stand beside them.
You can partner with us to help Mathias, his family and others seeking protection by offering pro bono help or donating to us.
*Name changed to protect the family’s privacy.
