On the surface, Hong Kong transmits an image of prosperity, comfort and convenience. But beyond the façade of pristine skyscrapers and bustling shopping malls, a darker life exists for some of the territory's newest residents. Deep into Hong Kong's New Territories, close to the border with Mainland China, lies Ping Che, a decrepit village that has become a prison for many of its inhabitants. One of them is Arif, 26, a wiry, long-haired asylum-seeker from Bangladesh. His house, barely more than a few slabs of sheet metal propped against decaying beams, runs along open sewers. Flies circle near the improvised toilet -- basically a hole in the kitchen floor. The water is dirty and the electricity supply unreliable.
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Advocates say Hong Kong government policies make refugees' lives 'a living hell'
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Barred from work, refugees are given poor housing, meager food, and little medical care
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Refugees wait years for their claims to be processed, but are almost always rejected
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Human rights advocates say Hong Kong's international reputation is at risk
They conclude that @placeholder is safe, but they would've rather died.