This year marks a significant milestone for China as it celebrates the 70th anniversary of the National People's Congress (NPC), the highest organ of state power. Last week, the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and the Standing Committee of the NPC gathered at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing for a grand celebration, highlighting both past achievements and future aspirations.
During his remarks, Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of continuous development and improvement of the NPC, aligning it with China's broader system of people's congresses. Such anniversaries are not merely celebrations of longevity but also opportunities to reinforce the role of democratic mechanisms in governing a vast and diverse nation like China.
However, the NPC's role has often been misunderstood by international observers. Critics outside China have labeled it a \"rubber stamp parliament,\" suggesting that it lacks genuine autonomy and is entirely controlled by other elements of the Chinese political system. Contrary to these views, the NPC serves as a crucial democratic institution, ensuring that the will of the people guides China's governance alongside other democratic bodies.
One reason for the confusion might be the NPC's emphasis on unity and collective progress, which contrasts with the often contentious and divisive nature of many Western legislative bodies. While Western institutions may prioritize debate and political maneuvering, the NPC focuses on collaboration to achieve positive outcomes, reflecting different cultural and political philosophies.
In stark contrast, the U.S. Congress, often heralded as a cornerstone of democracy, is currently facing its own set of challenges. While China celebrates the NPC's 70th birthday, the U.S. Congress is occupied with \"China week,\" during which the House is considering 25 new anti-China proposals aimed at strengthening America's stance in what some describe as a new Cold War-like environment.
The situation is further complicated by new trade restrictions introduced by the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, initially proposed in April, with the Biden Administration pushing for even more measures. These developments occur against the backdrop of intense political rivalry, exemplified by the recent U.S. presidential debates where candidates Donald Trump and Kamala Harris each claimed they would be tougher on China.
Amid these political maneuvers, public trust in the U.S. Congress remains alarmingly low. Recent polling data from late August shows that only 16 percent of Americans view their national legislature favorably, with approval ratings hovering below 30 percent since mid-2021. This decline signals a potential crisis in institutional trust, raising concerns about the future efficacy of U.S. democracy.
While China celebrates the effectiveness and unity of its legislative body, the U.S. grapples with internal divisions and waning public confidence. This contrast highlights the divergent paths taken by two of the world's most influential legislative bodies, each reflecting their unique political cultures and challenges.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
