To What Extent Hong Kong Was Modernized at the End of the 20th Century?

To a large extent, Hong Kong was modernized at the end of the 20th century. I would like to explain my answer in economic, political, social and cultural aspects of Hong Kong.

In political aspect, first, there was the democratic development at the local level. In 1968, the City District Office Scheme was introduced. All government department set up various consultative committees to collect public opinions. In 1973, all the Urban Council members were unofficial member and in 1995, all were elected. In 1981, the District Board was established. In 1986, all the Regional Council were unofficial member and in 1995, most of its were elected. There was an increasing number of official and local Chinese members.

Second, the Legislative Council became more representative. In 1985, it started its first indirect election. In 1991, it started its first direct election. In 1995, all 60 members were unofficial member and 1/3 of them were returned by direct election.

Third, more political commentary group, pressure group and political parties were formed. With the growth of the middle class, they represented the interest of different social classes and encouraged the public to participate in local politics.

In economic aspect, first, there was the revival of entrepot trade. Because of the policy of Reform and Opening up of Chine, the entrepot trade was revived and it laid the foundation for the industrialization in Hong Kong.

Second, there was the industrialization in Hong Kong. Since the geographical location of HK was a favourable factors. Hong Kong lies on the time zone between Europe and America. New York, London and HK were formed an international 21 hours a day finance market. This led HK became an international financial centre. The tertiary industry (finance and service sectors) in HK grew rapidly and even surpassed the manufacturing industry.

In social and cultural aspects, there was urbanization in HK. Many large scale reclamation were carried out...