This book explains the changing pattern of contentious politics in the democratization process of the two city-states Singapore and Hong Kong. It explores the causal connections between popular contention and democratization by applying a multi-disciplinary approach, using theoretical insights from the political sciences, sociology and psychology. It argues that the differences in the strategies applied by the ruling elite in the city-states explain why members of the opposition were empowered or obstructed in challenging the government.

This text explains the changing pattern of contentious politics in the democratization process of the two city-states Singapore and Hong Kong. It explores the causal connections between popular contention and democratization by applying a multi-disciplinary approach.

This book deals with institutional reforms in response to a mounting environmental crisis in Vietnam. The author introduces the reader to the most important environmental problems that Vietnam is currently facing and shows how the emphasis on economic growth has come at the expense of the natural environment. Following an assessment of the still deteriorating environmental situation, the book develops a theoretical framework of institutional change within the political system seeking to overcome the traditionally static understanding of institutions. The empirical analysis devotes attention...