Hong Kong: The Perils of Semidemocracy

Issue Date October 2001
Volume 12
Issue 4
Page Numbers 5-18
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Read the full essay here.

Hong Kong has experienced a smooth transition from British to Chinese rule, but signs of political, economic, and social malaise mean that further steps toward fuller democracy are needed.

About the Author

William H. Overholt is head of Asia strategy and economics for Nomura International, a Japan-based securities firm with offices in Hong Kong and around the world. He holds a doctorate in political science from Yale University and is the author of five books, including The Rise of China: How Economic Reform Is Creating a New Superpower (1994).

View all work by William H. Overholt

Further Reading

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The Rise of “Localism” in Hong Kong

The September 2016 Legislative Council election marked the rise of a new political force that emphasizes the specific interests and identity of Hong Kong. It has especially been championed by…

Volume 5, Issue 2

Broken Promises: Hong Kong Faces 1997

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Volume 26, Issue 2

Hong Kong’s Umbrella Movement: Beijing’s Broken Promises

China has gone back on its well-documented vow (and solemn treaty obligation) to allow Hong Kong genuine universal suffrage. Abrogated commitments and fake democracy are not the path to a…