Daily Governance Brings Democracy to Life, Says NPC Deputy
When a foreign visitor recently paused at a photo display in Shanghai’s Hongqiao subdistrict legislative service center, they marveled at an unexpected scene: images of Chinese national lawmakers actively engaging with residents. For Sheng Hong, a National People’s Congress (NPC) deputy and community leader, this reaction underscores the practical impact of what she calls “whole-process people’s democracy.”
Democracy in Action: From Beijing Debates to Neighborhood Mediation
Speaking during this year’s NPC session, Sheng emphasized that her 14 years of grassroots work prove democracy isn’t confined to policy discussions in Beijing. “Real democratic practice happens through everyday efforts—resolving disputes, addressing community needs, and ensuring everyone’s voice shapes decisions,” she explained. Hongqiao, home to 87,000 residents from 50 countries, serves as a living laboratory for this approach.
Global Interest in a Cosmopolitan Hub
The subdistrict’s resident center hosted 510 visiting groups in 2024 alone, including 55 international delegations. Foreign observers frequently express surprise at the accessibility of local political representatives, Sheng noted. “Many assume elected officials are distant figures. Here, they see us collaborating directly with residents daily.”
Pride in Bridging Understanding
As China continues refining its governance model, Sheng sees her role as both a community problem-solver and global ambassador. “Demonstrating our diverse democratic practices brings immense pride,” she said. “It’s about showing how theory becomes tangible progress.”
