Description
Book SynopsisHong Kong under British rule was a prime example of exceptionalism in many aspects - economic, political, and even social. It was governed under a colonial structure and yet had enjoyed a large degree of social and economic freedom, as well as fiscal self-sufficiency and autonomy from London. After returning to Chinese rule in 1997, Hong Kong has continued to thrive as a relatively resilient city state still known for efficiency and effectiveness despite tensions and scepticism about its political future. This book carries decades of academic observations and the author's personal political experience. It reviews and reflects on the past trajectory of governance and administration, identifying strengths and capabilities as well as constraints and vulnerabilities of Hong Kong as a polity and society, while charting its course of 'exceptionalism' within a new context and under changing conditions. As this book concludes, the exceptionalism of Hong Kong not only hinges on institutional arrangements and historical inheritance but also on the statecraft of the administration of the day.
Trade Review… This is a text for deep reading, reflection, and deliberation."– Professor Lui Tai-lok Chair Professor of Hong Kong Studies, Director of the Academy of Hong Kong Studies, Director of the Centre for Greater China Studies, and Former Vice President (Research & Development) at Education University of Hong Kong
"… a gem … whatever your political stand is, you have to admire Professor Cheung's thorough observations and profound ideas on what made this city tick…"– Mr Lam Woon-kwong Former Secretary for the Civil Service and Secretary for Home Affairs, and Former Convenor of Non-Official Members of the Executive Council (2012–2017)
Table of ContentsIntroduction Exceptionalism and Hybridity
Part I The Legacy
- 1 The Making of an Administrative State
- 2 Administrative Modernisation
- 3 Public Sector Reform
Part II Transition and Change
- 4 Regime Transition and Institutional Changes
- 5 A New Ministerial System
- 6 The Civil Service System and Reform
- 7 Government Capacity and Policy System
- 8 From Positive Non-Interventionism to Proactive Government
- 9 Government Performance and Trust
Part III Tensions and Challenges
- 10 The Quest for Democracy
- 11 A Government Without Parties or Votes
- 12 Two Systems, Two Existentialisms
- 13 The Rise of Identity Politics
- 14 The Wider Governance Debates
Epilogue Hong Kong Exceptionalism at a Crossroads
Postscript
