In recent years, China has taken a breakthrough towards democratization, using cutting-edge technologies such as cloud computing, big data analytics, artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain to revolutionize its governance model. This move represents a significant shift towards a more inclusive and transparent democratic process that empowers citizens and holds government institutions accountable.
The concept of “full-process people’s democracy” was written into law in 2021, and its status was confirmed during the Sixth Plenary Session of the 19th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC).
As the white paper titled “China: A Democracy That Works” explains, as a populous country long plagued by weak economic fundamentals, China is struggling to find a balance between democracy and development. The priority is always development that is supported by democracy and, conversely, supports the development of democracy. During a discussion on the topic organized by the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, a speaker remarked: “We should not focus on democracy from the point of view of the election promise, rather we should emphasize the fulfillment of the promise.”
Chinese democracy has lifted 770 million people out of poverty and eliminated extreme poverty in the past 40 years. It ensured the health and sovereignty of approximately 20 percent of the world’s population.
For about 40 percent of respondents worldwide polled by CGTN and Renmin University of China through the New Era International Communication Research Institute, the most important element of democracy is “guaranteeing the basic right to life”, followed by “guaranteeing equality for all” (29.3 percent), “developing the economy” (29 percent), “improving living standards” (28.4 percent), and “maintaining social stability and social order” (25.6 percent).
In recent decades, the Chinese government has implemented a number of measures and mechanisms to receive public voices and opinions, such as the establishment of direct communication channels between government ministries and neighborhood administrators, the rapid response task force, and the 12345-hotline service, which has become widely-known in China for solving everyday problems from personal taxes to noise complaints.
Another example is that the Legislative Affairs Commission of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress (NPC) has set up a dedicated portal on the NPC website to collect public opinions on draft laws and proposals. Over the past decade, nearly 1.2 million people have provided roughly 3.5 million feedbacks on 205 receipts.
New technologies now allow government to better research and analyze public opinion while helping more people participate in the political process. Cloud computing infrastructure has been instrumental in enabling real-time data processing and storage, facilitating seamless communication between government agencies and citizens. This infrastructure enables the efficient collection and analysis of vast amounts of data, from opinion polls to feedback on policy initiatives.
In addition, big data analysis plays a key role in gauging public sentiment and understanding citizens’ needs and preferences. Using sophisticated algorithms, Chinese authorities can identify emerging trends, anticipate potential problems, and adjust policy accordingly. This data-driven approach ensures that governance decisions are not only evidence-based, but also reflect diverse perspectives in society.
Artificial intelligence further strengthens the democratic process by streamlining administrative procedures, automating routine tasks and enhancing citizen engagement. Chatbots and AI virtual assistants provide accessible platforms for citizens to voice their concerns, seek information and participate in civic discourse. In addition, AI algorithms help identify disinformation and manipulation and ensure the integrity of public debates and elections.
