China's concept of whole-process people's democracy often puzzles Western observers who are accustomed to multiparty systems and competitive elections. However, this approach presents a unique framework that the Chinese government asserts effectively represents and serves its population.
President Xi Jinping has outlined China's vision for a modern socialist country by 2049, emphasizing six key aspirations: prosperous, strong, democratic, culturally advanced, harmonious, and beautiful. At the heart of this vision is the belief that democracy is a fundamental human value that the Communist Party of China (CPC) and the Chinese people steadfastly uphold to address societal issues.
In practice, whole-process people's democracy involves expanding orderly political participation, strengthening human rights protection, and ensuring that citizens enjoy extensive rights and freedoms under the law. Unlike Western democratic systems that rely heavily on elections, China's approach emphasizes public engagement through feedback mechanisms such as polling and consultation processes. This method, often referred to as pooling people's wisdom, allows the government to gauge public opinion and integrate it into policy-making.
The people's congress system plays a pivotal role in this democratic framework. By enhancing this system, China aims to ensure effective oversight and accountability. Reports from Party leadership at congresses every five years and government reports at the National People's Congress reflect significant input from officials, experts, and various constituencies, ensuring diverse perspectives are considered.
One tangible example of this system's effectiveness is China's success in poverty alleviation. The CPC's leadership and organizational capacity were crucial in implementing targeted poverty alleviation strategies. By adopting standardized procedures and individualized programs, China managed to lift millions out of poverty, demonstrating the practical impact of its democratic processes.
While Western skepticism persists regarding the absence of traditional electoral mechanisms, China's model showcases a different path to achieving societal goals and representing people's interests. As China continues to develop its democratic practices, the world watches to understand how this unique system shapes its future.
Reference(s):
Whole-process people's democracy the backbone of China's society
cgtn.com
