A Level General Paper Tuition - Understanding Political Continuity in ASEAN

Introduction

In 2024, Singapore had it’s first leadership change in 20 years. On May 15, Lawrence Wong took over as prime minister from Lee Hsien Loong. This leadership change in Singapore was initially planned for around 2022, but it was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Let us explore why it was postponed and understand what political continuity is and it’s impacts.

1. WHAT IS POLITICAL CONTINUITY?

Political continuity refers to the maintenance of consistent and stable governance practices, policies, and leadership transitions over time within a political system. It often involves a seamless transfer of power from one leader or administration to another, ensuring that government operations and long-term strategic goals are not disrupted.

Political Continuity in the United States and Singapore

1. SINGAPORE: REAPING THE REWARDS OF CONSISTENT LEADERSHIP

Since its independence in 1965, Singapore has been under the steady leadership of the People's Action Party (PAP). This unwavering governance has been critical to the city-state's incredible transformation and stable rule.

2. IMPACT OF CONSISTENT LEADERSHIP IN SINGAPORE

The continuous leadership of the PAP has allowed Singapore to pursue long-term economic strategies that have turned it into a global powerhouse.

1. Economic Growth
   Consistent policies focused on creating a business-friendly environment, developing world-class infrastructure, and fostering innovation have driven Singapore's impressive economic growth. Changi Airport and the Port of Singapore, among the busiest globally, are products of such foresight and investment.

2. Stable Business Environment
   Political stability attracts foreign investment, making Singapore a magnet for multinational corporations. This predictability gives businesses the confidence to invest and grow, contributing to the nation's prosperity.

Singapore's political stability has also led to highly effective governance and social policies, which have significantly improved its citizens' quality of life.

1. Housing and Infrastructure
   The Housing Development Board (HDB) has provided affordable housing to most Singaporeans. This achievement results from consistent, long-term policy implementation, ensuring social stability.

2. Education and Healthcare
   Singapore's education and healthcare systems are among the best in the world. The government’s ability to sustain long-term policies in these areas has resulted in high living standards and a well-educated populace.

Stable governance has bolstered Singapore's international standing and diplomatic relationships.

1. Global Influence
   Singapore's steady leadership has allowed it to maintain a strong presence in international forums like ASEAN, the United Nations, and the World Trade Organization. Its stability makes it a reliable partner on the global stage.

2. Crisis Management
   Consistent governance has enabled Singapore to respond effectively to crises. During the COVID-19 pandemic, swift and decisive actions, including widespread testing and clear communication, helped control the outbreak and minimise its impact.

3. UNITED STATES (US): BALANCE BETWEEN CHANGE AND CONTINUITY

The US, with its democratic system, experiences regular leadership changes. While this brings policy shifts, the strength of its institutions ensures a level of continuity.

4. IMPACT OF REGULAR LEADERSHIP TRANSITIONS IN US

In the US, there are regular leadership transitions where leadership changes every four or eight years, depending on election outcomes. This is a fundamental aspect of its democracy.

1. Policy Shifts
   Leadership changes can lead to significant policy shifts. For example, the transition from Barack Obama to Donald Trump brought substantial changes in domestic and foreign policies, followed by another shift when Joe Biden took office.

2. Democratic Renewal
   Regular elections ensure that leadership remains responsive to the electorate's needs and can effectively address new challenges.

Despite frequent changes at the top, the US benefits from solid institutions (institutional communities) that provide stability and continuity.

1. Stable Governance
   Institutions like the judiciary, Congress, and the civil service ensure that governance remains stable despite leadership changes. These institutions uphold the rule of law and provide a consistent framework for governance.

2. Economic Confidence
   Strong institutions foster economic confidence. Even amidst political changes, businesses and investors can rely on the stability provided by the US's regulatory frameworks and property rights.

3. International Role
   Institutional continuity ensures that the US remains a key player on the global stage. Consistent foreign policies maintain the country's global influence, especially regarding strategic alliances and international commitments.

Comparing the Two Systems

While both Singapore and the US benefit from political continuity, they achieve it through different means, each with unique advantages.

1. Source of Continuity
   Singapore’s continuity comes from the long-standing rule of the PAP. In contrast, the US relies on the strength of its institutions to provide stability amidst regular leadership changes.

2. Impact on Policy
   Singapore’s steady leadership allows for long-term planning and consistent policy implementation. In the US, while leadership changes can result in policy shifts, institutional stability ensures that fundamental governance remains steady.

3. Public Trust and Stability
   Both countries maintain public trust and stability. Singapore’s consistent leadership fosters solid public confidence, while the US’s democratic system ensures accountability through regular elections.

Conclusion

Political continuity ensures stability, economic growth, and effective governance. Singapore exemplifies the benefits of continuous leadership, allowing for long-term planning and sustained development. Meanwhile, the US demonstrates how strong institutions can balance the need for democratic renewal with the benefits of stable governance.

These two examples highlight the importance of political continuity, whether through consistent leadership or robust institutions, in fostering a nation's growth and stability. Understanding these dynamics is critical to appreciating how different systems can successfully manage the balance between continuity and change.