China's unique approach to democracy, known as Whole-Process People's Democracy, is gaining attention worldwide. At the heart of this system are the people's congresses, which serve as the primary platform for political expression and legislative action.
The pinnacle of this structure is the National People's Congress (NPC), which convenes every March to enact laws that shape the nation's future. Throughout the year, various NPC committees, particularly the Standing Committee, work diligently to prepare legislation that aligns with China's political agenda.
As of 2022, there are over 2.6 million deputies across China's five levels of people's congresses: state, provincial, municipal, county, and township. Notably, deputies at the county and township levels are directly elected by voters, emphasizing the foundational principle that the people are the masters of the country.
Deputy elections are designed to reflect the will of the people, with candidates being recommended by diverse groups, including voters and deputies. This competitive process ensures that voters have multiple choices, with Party-led committees vetting candidates to maintain quality and integrity. Election funds are provided by the state treasury, secret ballots are used to guarantee free choice, and any attempts to undermine the electoral process are met with strict sanctions.
Public supervision plays a crucial role in this democratic framework. Citizens have various avenues to oversee their deputies, such as listening to reports, offering critiques, and even recalling deputies if necessary. This system aims to engage the populace in meaningful ways, moving beyond mere formalities to involve genuine participation in governance.
Over the decades, the composition of deputies has evolved to ensure balanced representation. The ratio of rural to urban deputies has shifted from an 8:1 imbalance in 1953 to an equal 1:1 ratio today, promoting equality across regions. Additionally, adjustments are made to include deputies from all ethnic groups, social strata, industrial sectors, and both government and military services, reflecting China's diverse society.
While implementation continues to improve, the commitment to engaging the people substantively remains a key goal for China's leadership. As the nation strives for great rejuvenation, Whole-Process People's Democracy stands as a testament to its unique path towards governance and societal development.
Reference(s):
Whole-process people's democracy: How Chinese people's congresses work
cgtn.com
