ABSTRACT
Against the backdrop of administrative decentralization, urban governance in China has undergone fundamental transformation, which is best manifested in diversified governing agents and dwindling direct state intervention. These changes have given rise to HOAs in Chinese cities. Nonetheless, the development of HOAs is highly uneven, both across cities and within cities, since the establishment and performance of a HOA are highly contingent upon institutional arrangements, especially the legislative system and state involvement. Not only is the formation of HOAs closely monitored by state agents, but also their governance efficacy is significantly affected by the disputes and power relations between HOAs and state agents as well as the involvement of state agents in neighborhood activities. These findings suggest a persisting state influence throughout the development of China’s HOAs.
