Remote Control
Governance Lessons for and from Small, Insular, and Remote Regions

9781894725088

Paperback / softback, published 4 April 2009

328 pages
22.9 x 15.2 x 1.9 cm, 0.666 kg

"Remote Control is an interesting compendium of current research on topics related to governance for small, insular and remote regions. Those who spend a career studying these matters... will find much here to stimulate their thoughts on the subject." - Jean-Paul Arsenault, Commission on Land and Rural Governance, Prince Edward Island, Canada

How does one transform small size and relative isolation into a powerful combination for sustainable growth and prosperity? Some islands and rural regions have already done so. Winning tools and strategies deployed by these middle-level governance structures include: 'scaling up' of municipal units; developing tourist and computer-driven industries; engaging strategically with their diaspora; branding niche products and services; facilitating 'boutique', small-scale manufacturing; limiting local firm rivalry; and, overall, deploying a creative 'resourcefulness of jurisdiction'.

The papers in this collection flesh out these tools and strategies. They do so by unpacking and challenging received wisdom; charting out the parameters of effective government; teasing in the critical role of empowered local communities and the engagement of civil society with the multiple levels of decision-making of the state.

The book's message emphasizes a proactive, creative, and assertive approach to governance; one that aims to instill a sense of efficacy to achieve remote control.