“Mainlandization” of Hong Kong, A Model of Influence, Resistance and Adjustment

• Main Author: Lukasz Zamecki
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: UNISCI 2020-05-01
• Series: Revista UNISCI
• Subjects: “mainlandization”; hong kong-china relations; institutionalization; sinification; political influence; asymmetric relations; special administrative region; sovereignty; autonomy
• Online Access: http://www.unisci.es/mainlandization-of-hong-kong-a-model-of-influence-resistance-and-adjustment/

The aim of this article, based on the author’s field research in Hong Kong and critical analysis of publications, is to conceptualize the process of “mainlandization” of the Hong Kong SAR. “Mainlandization” is understood here as the process of transfer and institutionalization of political visions, policy paradigms, procedures, and norms which originate from the PRC. The model is inspired by various theoretical perspectives (e.g. diffusion of regimes, dependence, political convergence, and processes of “Europeanization”). The article differentiates the “top-down” transfer of values and/or policy standards and the “bottom-up” adjustment. All institutions engaged in intermediation (such as the “one country, two systems” principle) are mentioned, as well as the processes connected to the reaction to PRC activity in Hong Kong and their variations (e.g. accommodation, resistance, resignation). Moreover, the concept of “sinoscepticism” is introduced.