Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of the book. The book explores the legal and political significance of vastly important movements. It provides a contextual juxtaposition of two jurisdictions pivotal to the peace and prosperity of the Asia Pacific region and beyond. The book focuses on the role dissent and civil disobedience play in democracies and non-democracies, and how governments can appropriately respond to such action; how social movements can impact politics, public policy, and the law; and how jurisdictions based around the principles of liberty, democracy, and the rule of law can ask difficult questions, in order to better govern themselves. It addresses the Taiwan Sunflower Movement, the Hong Kong Umbrella Movement, and comparative elements of the Sunflower and Umbrella movements. The book discusses the two movements from more comprehensive perspectives.