The city as a tool: the political regime and the success of Singapore's «smart nation»

The article explores the phenomenon of the “smart city” through the unique case of Singapore – a city-state that has successfully implemented a national strategy of digital and sustainable development under an authoritarian political regime. The paper examines the institutional conditions, political choices, and technological innovations that enabled the success of the “Smart Nation” project. Special focus is given to the interaction between the political context, citizen engagement, governance structures, and mechanisms of urban transformation. The article highlights the paradox that despite limited democratic institutions, Singapore has built an inclusive digital infrastructure and promoted sustainable practices. It also addresses the contradictions and limitations faced by smart cities in authoritarian environments and reflects on the potential trajectories of democratization within such contexts.

Keywords: smart city; Singapore; political regime; smart nation; digital transformation

For citation: Meleshkina E.Yu. The city as a tool: the political regime and the success of Singapore's «smart nation» // Social Novelties and Social Sciences. – 2025. – N 3. – P. 78–93.
DOI: 10.31249/snsn/2025.03.05

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