In a significant development, China’s national lawmakers commenced deliberations on the Supreme People’s Court’s (SPC) work report during the second plenary meeting of the third session of the 14th National People’s Congress. Delivered by SPC President Zhang Jun, the report highlights China’s strides in enhancing judicial effectiveness and maintaining social order over the past year.
Reduction in Violent Crimes
According to the report, Chinese courts successfully concluded 49,000 intentional homicide cases in 2024, marking a 5.8% decrease from the previous year and a substantial 28.7% decline compared to a decade ago. High-profile convictions, including two mass murderers responsible for tragic incidents in Guangdong and Jiangsu provinces, underscore the judiciary’s commitment to deterring violent offenses and protecting the public.
Crackdown on Financial Crimes
Financial security remained a priority, with courts nationwide handling 2.66 million financial cases in 2024, a decrease of 12.3% year-on-year. While there was a 5.3% rise in cases related to illegal fundraising and money laundering, the overall decline indicates strengthened law enforcement efforts to safeguard economic stability.
Oversight of Profit-Driven Law Enforcement
The SPC emphasized its role in protecting businesses and entrepreneurs by enhancing oversight of illicit cross-region and profit-driven law enforcement. This initiative aims to prevent the misuse of legal measures in economic disputes, fostering a law-based business environment where both state-owned and private enterprises are equally protected against illegal activities.
Combating Corruption
Addressing corruption remained a focal point, with courts concluding 30,000 duty-related crime cases in 2024, reflecting a 22.3% increase from the previous year. Notable cases include the sentencing of Li Tie, former head coach of the national men’s football team, to 20 years in prison, demonstrating the judiciary’s resolve to eliminate corruption at all levels.
Protection of Foreign Parties' Rights
An increasing number of foreign individuals are turning to Chinese courts to exercise jurisdiction, highlighting China’s efforts to protect the rights of both domestic and international parties. The report notes that approximately 417,000 civil and commercial cases involving foreign elements have been concluded since 2013, reinforcing China’s status as a key destination for global investment.
Decline in Credit Defaulters
For the first time in a decade, the number of credit defaulters on China’s blacklist declined in 2024, with nearly 2.46 million defaulters removed—a 23.4% decrease year-on-year. This improvement reflects enhanced public awareness of the rule of law and integrity, as well as advancements in law enforcement and the judicial environment.
Enhancing Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs)
China has made significant progress in protecting intellectual property rights, particularly in emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, high-end manufacturing, biomedicine, and new materials. In 2024, Chinese courts concluded 494,000 IPR-related cases, a 0.9% increase from the previous year, supporting the lawful application of advanced technologies and penalizing infringements effectively.
The Supreme People’s Court’s comprehensive work report underscores China’s ongoing efforts to uphold legal standards, protect individual and corporate rights, and foster a secure and fair societal framework.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
