As China advances its 15th Five-Year Plan in 2026, the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) continues to demonstrate how consultative democracy translates grassroots insights into national policy. The model gained renewed attention this week as the CPPCC National Committee convened its annual session in Beijing, with President Xi Jinping attending the opening meeting.
From Food Delivery Riders to Five-Year Plans
National political advisor Pi Jianlong exemplifies this process. His 2025 research into challenges facing food delivery workers – including lack of social security contracts – led major platforms like JD.com and Meituan to implement comprehensive insurance programs. Recognized recently by the CPPCC for outstanding service, Pi's work reflects the advisory body's 99.9% proposal response rate in 2025.
Building Consensus Through Data
The CPPCC processed 5,992 member proposals last year while conducting 6,778 public service activities. Its role in shaping the 15th Five-Year Plan proved particularly impactful: A 2025 online consultation gathered over 3.11 million public submissions, resulting in 218 substantive revisions to the development blueprint. This inclusive approach helped secure 4.6% GDP growth in Q4 2025 despite global economic headwinds.
Roadmap for 2026
This year's priorities include cross-sector research on technological innovation and social governance reforms. The CPPCC aims to strengthen its democratic oversight mechanisms during the 15th Five-Year Plan period, particularly regarding environmental sustainability and elderly care systems. With 98 consultative events held in 2025 addressing issues from low-carbon transition to silver economy development, the body continues evolving China's whole-process people's democracy concept.
