The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region in Its First Decade

This volume intends to survey the developments of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) in various important areas in its first decade. It aims to critically review past developments, identify the significant issues, and assess the performance of the government and that of the community as a whole. It also attempts to consider future development trends and offers policy suggestions. In the context of increasing self-censorship in the academic community and among the media, authors in this volume are keen to demonstrate their integrity and objectivity. There is no intention to put the blame on the government either.
This substantial book of twenty-four chapters hopes to offer a comprehensive overview of Hong Kong in the past ten years. It covers various aspects of political development; the implementation of “one country, two systems”; China’s policy towards Hong Kong; nationalism, regionalism and globalism; the economy; Hong Kong people’s economic attitudes; economic relations between Mainland China and Hong Kong; competition law; labour; social transformation and social mobility; poverty, income inequality and social welfare; the elderly population; urban planning; the environment; education; housing policy; transport policy; medical and health; the media; and church-state relations. Each chapter is written by a recognized expert(s) in the specific area concerned; and the team of authors is arguably the best in the territory.

The book aims to be an important contribution to Hong Kong studies. It should appeal to local and international readers interested in Hong Kong; the latter include the international financial and business community, researchers in Asian Studies, journalists and educated tourists. The local general public should find the book a good introduction to various policy debates too.

Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the staff of the City University of Hong Kong Press for their hard work and dedication throughout the publication process, especially Mr. Patrick Kwong, the director, who has offered much valuable assistance. Thanks are also due to all the authors for their support and co-operation, especially in meeting the numerous deadlines set within a tight editorial schedule.

Joseph Y.S. Cheng
May 2007