As governments worldwide seek robust long-term strategies, the Chinese mainland’s 15th Five-Year Plan (2026–2030) has drawn attention for its scientific, people-centered approach.
Earlier this week, on November 12–13, 2025, at the International Forum of the Overseas Studies on Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era in Beijing, Keith Bennett—vice chair of Britain’s 48 Group Club and co-editor of Friends of Socialist China—spoke with CGTN about this model.
"I think one of the striking features [of the recommendations for the 15th FYP], as President Xi Jinping explained at the Fourth Plenary Session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, is how those plans are formulated, where the ideas of literally millions of people are received, assessed and incorporated into the final plan that emerges," Bennett said.
Drawing on surveys, local workshops and online consultations across provinces, the Chinese mainland collects feedback at every stage—translating public input into targeted policies on innovation, sustainability and social services.
This large-scale participation not only strengthens public trust but also ensures that national targets reflect real needs on the ground. Experts say this model offers lessons for other nations exploring participatory frameworks in policy design.
With the 15th Five-Year Plan set to kick off in January 2026, all eyes are on how this science-driven, people-first model will deliver on its ambitious goals and shape the next phase of the Chinese mainland’s development.
Reference(s):
Scientific planning, people-first: Expert hails China's systemic edge
cgtn.com
