Public Administration in Hong Kong: Dynamics of Reform and Executive-Led Public Policy

This book investigates the case of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) of Peoples Republic of China, mapping the changing patterns of political-administrative relations affected by the sovereignty change and structural reforms. It identifies the conditions that account for the varied political-administrative relations resulting from these changes and develops an analytical framework that integrates and adapts theories and models from Western contexts to explain varied political-administrative relations in Hong Kong policymaking. The book tests its hypotheses through a qualitative comparative analysis of 18 cases and a comparative case analysis, concluding that civil servants no longer dominate policymaking in Hong Kong after the regime change and structural reforms.

Format: Hardback
Length: 108 pages
Publication date: 30 June 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate dynamics of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) within the framework of the People's Republic of China, exploring the profound shifts in political-administrative relations brought about by sovereignty changes and structural reforms. Through a meticulous examination of the evolving patterns, the book identifies the underlying factors that shape the diverse political-administrative dynamics resulting from these transformative processes. Building upon a robust analytical framework, it seamlessly integrates and adapts theories and models from Western contexts to provide a comprehensive understanding of the complex political-administrative relations in Hong Kong policymaking.

To test its hypotheses, the book employs a qualitative comparative analysis, scrutinizing a comprehensive set of 18 cases that occurred between 1997 and 2012. Additionally, a comparative case analysis is conducted, shedding light on alternative causal conditions that were previously overlooked in the original framework. The book's findings ultimately conclude that the dominance of civil servants in policymaking in Hong Kong has waned following the regime change and structural reforms. While senior civil servants continue to wield influence through codified rules and political appointments, they have also adapted to the evolving political landscape, embracing proactive policy styles and demonstrating heightened hierarchical loyalty to the Central People's Government of China.

The rich firsthand interview materials presented within the book offer a unique perspective, providing insights into the internal political-administrative dynamics that are typically inaccessible to the public. These insights offer valuable insights into the actors, structures, and processes of local policymaking within the context of a post-colonial transition, making it an essential resource for scholars in the field of public administration.

Weight: 394g
Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032049182