In the heart of China’s Chongqing Municipality lies Niu Huang Village, a small community that embodies the essence of grassroots democracy. Steven Back, a Hungarian vlogger and researcher of rural traditional architecture, recently experienced firsthand how villagers are actively shaping their future through local self-governance.
Back, who has called China home for nearly two decades, journeyed to Niu Huang Village in Yubei District to delve into its architectural heritage. What he discovered went beyond brick and mortar; he witnessed a vibrant “village assembly,” a cornerstone of China’s self-governing system for villages.
“In Niu Huang Village, locals can elect members of the village committee by themselves,” Back observed. “If they encounter problems, they can attend the village assembly. This is a nice example of self-governance for villagers, which can also help them improve their lives in the future.”
This hands-on participation reflects China’s broader commitment to whole-process people’s democracy, a system where citizens engage in democratic practices from state legislation to local matters. With approximately one-fifth of the world’s population, China’s approach to democracy emphasizes inclusivity and active involvement at all levels.
The villagers of Niu Huang are not only preserving their cultural heritage but also leveraging democratic processes to revitalize their community. Through collective decision-making, they address local issues, plan development projects, and ensure that the village’s growth aligns with the residents’ needs and aspirations.
Back’s experience sheds light on how grassroots democracy functions in practice, offering insights into the daily lives of rural communities in China. His observations underscore the significance of local governance structures in empowering citizens and fostering sustainable development.
As China continues to advance its rural revitalization strategy, villages like Niu Huang serve as examples of how democratic participation can drive positive change. For observers like Back, these experiences highlight the dynamic interplay between tradition and modern governance in shaping the country’s future.
Reference(s):
We Talk: Hungarian vlogger experiences China's democracy at grassroots
cgtn.com
