On the occasion of the Chinese mainland’s 75th anniversary, the spotlight turns to China’s implementation of whole-process people’s democracy. This concept, while perhaps unfamiliar to some outside observers, is central to China’s governance and its vision for the future.
China regards democracy as a core value shared by all humanity. President Xi Jinping emphasizes democracy as one of the six aspirational adjectives in China’s goal of national rejuvenation. However, China asserts that democracy must align with local conditions and be developed gradually.
Whole-process people’s democracy in China operates through two main systems: the people’s congress system and the political consultation system. The people’s congress system provides platforms for public participation in governance through a hierarchical structure of people’s congresses at five levels: townships, counties, cities, provinces, and the National People’s Congress (NPC). The NPC, empowered to enact national laws, meets annually, with committees working year-round to prepare legislation reflecting the nation’s political agenda.
Representation within the people’s congresses is broad and mandated to include all regions, ethnic groups, and sectors of society, ensuring that workers, farmers, professionals, women, and ethnic minorities have appropriate representation. Elections at the two most local levels—townships and counties—are direct, while higher-level deputies are indirectly elected by deputies at the lower levels. The process aims to reflect the will of the people and hear their voices, with an emphasis on public supervision and feedback mechanisms.
China’s political consultation system, exemplified by the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), is another distinctive feature of its governance. The CPPCC is a platform for various sectors of society—including political parties, organizations, ethnic groups, and professionals—to participate in state affairs. While the CPPCC does not wield legislative power, its members, often experts in their fields, conduct research and provide valuable insights that influence policymaking. Government officials are expected to take CPPCC advice seriously, as it reflects both expert opinions and public interests.
The dual functions of the CPPCC—unity and democracy—aim to bring together diverse groups while fostering open consultation. As Chinese society evolves, there is a growing emphasis on balancing unity with the tolerance of diverse views to enhance the consultative process.
China’s approach to democracy, termed “socialist democracy with Chinese characteristics,” places the absolute leadership of the Communist Party of China as its first principle, which, according to China, ensures governance effectiveness. This model presents an alternative understanding of democracy, focused on governance effectiveness and gradual development tailored to China’s unique context.
As China commemorates its 75th anniversary, the implementation of whole-process people’s democracy highlights the nation’s ongoing efforts to adapt and refine its governance structures, seeking to align them with the aspirations of its people and the realities of its society.
Reference(s):
New China at 75: Implementing whole-process people's democracy
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