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Handbook of Governance in Small States is a timely and relevant addition to both academia and
the policy world. It successfully advances one’s understanding of the political economy of
development in small states, with pertinent references to their viability in the context of
climate change. From a practical standpoint, it offers policy solutions that – while requiring
further consultation for strategic and effective implementation – contain high-level policy
recommendations that can direct small states toward improving their governance performance.
The book, therefore, is not only suitable for students and academics, but is a valuable tool for
policy makers alike. Exoteric and insightful, the book will also connect with casual learners
interested in issues affecting development in small states. The text comprises 26 chapters written
by a group of scholars, researchers, and specialist practitioners; working in the fields of sociology,
politics, economics, international political economy, development studies, environmental
sciences, and engineering. The contributors work in various capacities across government
agencies, universities, and international finance institutions, in some cases, criss-crossing
platforms. They thus bring to the book a wealth of theoretical and practical knowledge in
important, cross-cutting themes under social, economic, environmental, and political governance.

The Handbook is divided neatly into four parts: Political Governance, Environmental
Governance, Social Governance, and Economic Governance. Each section has between six
and eight chapters, outlining various topics under the respective themes. Generally, concepts
are properly defined, and in cases where they are not, authors outline areas for further work
to improve conceptual clarity. This extends to areas of limitations of data. Methodologically,
chapters display intellectual rigour, making use of quantitative, qualitative, or mixed method
data gathering approaches. The chapters make judicious use of statistical tables where
applicable and necessary, in order to enhance analytical clarity. The chapters make good use
of multi-year data (as recent as 2019), as well as comparative analysis across small states, and
between small states and large economies. Chapters are not overly long, yet comprehensive
and thorough with adequate references for further delving into each topic.

- Courtney Lindsay, Independent Scholar

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