Democracy is a universal value, yet its expression varies across different nations, reflecting their unique histories, cultures, and social fabrics. China’s democratic model stands as a testament to this diversity, demonstrating how a country can tailor governance to meet the specific needs of its people.
Since its founding in 1921, the Communist Party of China (CPC) has emphasized that the people are the masters of the country. This commitment was solidified on October 1, 1949, when Chairman Mao Zedong declared the founding of the People’s Republic of China, marking a turning point in the nation’s history. He announced, “From now on, people will be the masters of the country,” setting the stage for a new governance model.
Between 1949 and 1978, the CPC worked tirelessly to establish systems that empowered the people. The development of the system of people’s congresses, multi-party cooperation, political consultations, and regional ethnic autonomy laid a solid foundation for China’s democratic governance. These structures ensured that the political, economic, and legal frameworks enabled citizens to participate actively in the nation’s affairs.
The period following the reform and opening-up saw further advancements. The CPC continued to enhance socialist democracy and the rule of law, refining the system of people’s congresses and improving community-level governance. These efforts ensured that democracy was practiced not just at the national level but also within local communities, fostering greater participation and representation.
Since the 18th National Congress of the CPC in 2012, China has entered a new era of socialism with Chinese characteristics. This era is rooted in human civilization and is designed to meet contemporary challenges. The concept of whole-process people’s democracy emerged as a comprehensive system with robust mechanisms and procedures. It seamlessly integrates electoral democracy with consultative democracy, allowing for wide participation and thorough testing of policies and initiatives.
China’s unique democratic model emphasizes that true democracy enables the people to be the masters of their own country and continuously improves their living standards. By tailoring its approach to its specific social and cultural context, China has forged a path that not only reflects the will of its people but also drives the nation’s remarkable development and success.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
