Editorial
Democracy in action
Editorial  ·  2023-03-03  ·   Source: NO.10 MARCH 9, 2023

Should democracy necessarily be characterized by partisan politics? A look at the workings of the National People's Congress (NPC), China's top legislature, sheds light on an alternative model.

Nearly 3,000 deputies are attending the First Session of the 14th NPC, which opened in Beijing on March 5. They were elected by the country's provinces, autonomous regions, municipalities, special administrative regions and armed forces. Of them, 16.69 percent are workers and farmers, while 32.55 percent are Party and government officials.

Being elected is not merely an honor; deputies shoulder important responsibilities. Effectively representing public interests is their top priority, and they must maintain close contact with their communities to do so. They also need to have both an in-depth knowledge of their own industries, professions and communities, and a good command of the nation's laws and policies.

Part of the role of NPC deputies includes regularly carrying out field research to gain understanding of economic and social development, as well as collect public opinion. Based on this insight, they formulate suggestions, which they then submit to the NPC. Government agencies are obligated to consider these suggestions and give feedback, and deputies then review this feedback and confirm whether or not it is satisfactory. As legislators, deputies can also propose motions on making, amending and interpreting laws.

In parallel with the NPC session, the annual session of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference National Committee gathers together more than 2,000 advisors. They include prominent figures in political, economic, academic, scientific, artistic and sporting communities. Like NPC deputies, they also make proposals to government departments for the betterment of the people.

As no similar bodies exist in Western countries, many international observers find it difficult to comprehend China's political system. While it is natural to have misunderstandings, there is no reason whatsoever to assume the Western system is the only approach to good governance. China's development has already demonstrated that there are other viable options.

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