SINGAPORE AND SWITZERLAND: SECRETS TO SMALL STATE SUCCESS

by Guo Yvonne, Jun Jie Woo

The cases of Singapore and Switzerland present a fascinating puzzle: how have two small states achieved similar levels of success through divergent pathways? Are both approaches equally sustainable, and what lessons do they hold for each other? While Singapore is the archetypal developmental state, whose success can be attributed to strong political leadership and long-term planning, Switzerland's success is a more organic process, due to the propitious convergence of strong industries and a resilient citizenry. Yet throughout the course of their development, both countries have had to deal with the dual challenges of culturally heterogeneous populations and challenging regional contexts. Edited by Yvonne Guo and Jun Jie Woo, with forewords from Ambassadors Thomas Kupfer and Tommy Koh, Singapore and Switzerland: Secrets to Small State Success features contributions from distinguished scholars and policymakers who explore the dynamics of two small states which have topped international rankings in a dazzling array of policy areas, from economic competitiveness to education to governance, but whose pathways to success could not be more different.

352 pages, Hardcover

Published August 6, 2016

Reviews

[Neil H]

A comparative outlook between 2 small countries on its similarity of multiculturalism, ethnicity, shared economic perspectives. The key differences lie in the ideological levers of democracy embraced. Switzerland uses a bottom up approach relying on its citizens to proceed on substantive and everyday issues for adoption. The cantons operate on fairly autonomous wheels with representation on the federal government. Singapore in contrast with its tighter size constraints requires a firmer long lens approach to social and economic preparations by its elected representatives.

[James Dalziel]

insightful and drew out many connections that I was previously unaware of. They became obvious once highlighted, especially in the areas of finance, taxation, and education. Similar populations and social norms, not surprisingly.