Almost uniquely among the states created in the wake of the end of colonialism, Singapore has been blessed by sure-footed and visionary leadership since its separation from Malaysia and full independence in 1965. Lee Kuan Yew’s eldest son, Lee Hsien Loong, has now stepped down after 20 years as Prime Minister of Singapore, passing the baton to Lawrence Wong, in what is generally known as the transition to “4G”, or the fourth generation of political leadership.

After a spectacular 60 years of almost uninterrupted economic growth and political stability, however, darker clouds appear to be gathering on the horizon. Economic and social challenges at home, compounded and accelerated by the shifting geopolitical landscape, mean that the small but disproportionately influential city-state of Singapore is likely to be buffeted by strong winds in the decades ahead.

With me to discuss the past, present, and future of Singapore’s fascinating politics is Professor Eugene Tan, Associate Professor at the School of Law at Singapore Management University. Prof. Tan teaches courses on constitutional and administrative law, as well as courses on the law and policy of ethnic relations in Singapore. He has also served in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and among other distinctions he was a nominated member of Parliament from 2012 to 2014.