Tag Archives: governance

Reform in Malaysian Party Politics: Reasons for Slow Change in UMNO

Trying to reform a dominant political party by changing the status quo can precipitate conflict and instability, particularly if conservatism has become ingrained in its political practices. One such dominant party, the United Malays National Organization (UMNO), has been beleaguered by vociferous calls for reform since its uncharacteristically mediocre performance in Malaysia’s general elections of March 2008. As the commanding group in the Barisan Nasional coalition, which has ruled Malaysia continuously since 1957, the UMNO has not been confronted with any serious challenge to its uninterrupted hold on power, particularly during the twenty-two-year rule of political strongman Mahathir Mohamad (1981-2003). Continue reading

Posted in Malaysia | Tagged conservatism, governance, party politics, reform | Leave a comment

Protests in China: Oppositional, or a Reflection of Faith in the System?

Memo #150 – Protests in China are often assumed to be ultimately aimed at regime change. But while protests reflect grievances, they also demonstrate faith that the state will respond to protesters’ demands. Continue reading

Posted in China | Tagged governance, human rights, protests, social protests, sociology | Comments Off

Asia Pacific Policy Studies (Special Edition)

Memo #124 – Our Master of Arts Asia Pacific Policy Studies (MAAPPS) is a boutique program offering training focused on the Asia Pacific to prepare graduates for professional careers in policy-analysis and policy-making. MAAPPS gives you the opportunity to focus on topics ranging from international relations and Asia’s place in the world, to human security and human rights, governance, international development and more. MAAPPS is an innovative and flexible program that can be tailored to suit you and your goals. Continue reading

Posted in Asia, Canada | Tagged governance, human rights, human security, international development, international relations, negotiation, policy-analysis, policy-making, social sciences, trade | Comments Off