Global Cities and Local Communities: A Comparative Analysis of Singapore and Hong Kong

Abstract

Hong Kong & Singapore are compared with respect to: (1) the features that characterize these city-states as global cities; & (2) their respective & unique approaches to the nurturing of local communities. Hong Kong & Singapore share some fundamental similarities in size, strategic location, cultural influences, & position in the world economy. However, these two cities differ significantly in other relevant aspects, eg, their political structure & culture, & the ethnic & religious composition of their populations. The analysis underscores important differences in the dynamics of urban life hidden by the generic label "global cities.".