Improving democratic governance in East Asia
Document Type
Journal article
Source Publication
Asian Journal of Political Science
Publication Date
6-1-2008
Volume
16
Issue
1
First Page
64
Last Page
84
Keywords
Constitutional Design, Governance Reform, Presidential Regime, Parliamentary Regime, Good Democracy
Abstract
This article addresses institutionalized instabilities and declining democratic legitimacy in East Asia. It argues that a wide range of reforms could improve democratic governance in the region. Specifically, the article analyses the importance of constitutional design and the need to promote 'good' democracy. It suggests that East Asian democracies should strive for constitutional systems that avoid gridlocks and promote effective governance. Although adopting the parliamentary system represents the optimal strategy, reforming second-tier political institutions can also improve performances of presidential regimes in these countries. Moreover, these democracies need to develop the institutions and processes that encourage greater rule of law, system responsiveness, meaningful citizen participation, and socioeconomic equality. If taken, these reforms could provide East Asian democracies with enhanced stability, efficacy and legitimacy.
DOI
10.1080/02185370801962416
Print ISSN
02185377
E-ISSN
17507812
Publisher Statement
Copyright © 2008 Asian Journal of Political Science
Access to external full text or publisher's version may require subscription.
Full-text Version
Publisher’s Version
Language
English
Recommended Citation
Zhang, B. (2008). Improving democratic governance in East Asia. Asian Journal of Political Science, 16(1), 64-84. doi: 10.1080/02185370801962416