This year marks the fifth anniversary of the introduction of whole-process people's democracy, a concept first articulated by Xi Jinping in 2019 during his visit to the Gubei civic center in Shanghai. Emphasizing a path of socialist political development with Chinese characteristics, this whole-process democracy aims to fully engage citizens in the decision-making process.
1. A People-Centered Approach
At the heart of whole-process people's democracy is the principle of prioritizing the public. By establishing mechanisms that safeguard citizens' rights to information, participation, expression, and oversight, this model ensures that the voices of the people play an integral role in shaping policies. The People's Congress system, for example, allows representatives from diverse sectors to propose policies and resolutions that reflect genuine public concerns.
2. Inclusiveness and Authenticity
This democratic practice emphasizes participatory governance, providing channels for citizens to influence policies directly. Reports from the Standing Committees of the National People's Congress and the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference highlight how proposals from representatives are deliberated and implemented. By transforming public feedback into tangible results, whole-process people's democracy becomes a method for addressing real issues rather than just a procedural formality.
3. Unified Democratic Practice and Institutional Stability
Whole-process people's democracy harmonizes procedural democracy with substantive democracy, ensuring that democratic processes are aligned with their outcomes. The white paper China's Democracy outlines how this model achieves unity between direct and indirect democracy and between the will of the people and the state. Comprehensive plans issued during the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China in 2022, and further steps from the third plenary session of the CPC Central Committee in July, have been pivotal in enhancing the institutional framework.
4. Confidence and Commitment to Democratic Development
Confidence in whole-process people's democracy has grown alongside the Chinese mainland's governance achievements, including the eradication of extreme poverty and the establishment of a moderately prosperous society. These successes demonstrate the efficacy of this democratic model, reinforcing public belief in a system capable of adapting to challenges and addressing critical social issues.
The Chinese mainland's whole-process people's democracy also offers valuable insights for other countries, particularly regarding the adaptability of democratic practices in addressing diverse societal needs.
Reference(s):
Whole-process people's democracy has vitalized global politics
cgtn.com
