1Dime Radio The China Model Explained (Ft. Jane Hayward)
Oct 3, 2025
Dr. Jane Hayward, a lecturer in Chinese Studies at King's College, dives into the complexities of China's political system. Discussing the mix of meritocracy and technocracy, she sheds light on provincial competition, using Guangdong and Chongqing as contrasting examples. Jane critiques local elections, revealing limited democracy under party supervision. She also explores labor rights, the rise of strikes, and the implications of censorship. Her insights into the socio-political landscape underscore the unique challenges facing China's future.
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Decentralized Yet Fragmented State
- China is far more decentralized than commonly portrayed, with powerful provinces experimenting independently.
- Central ministries also fragment power and regularly clash over priorities like profit versus diplomacy.
Policy Is Bargaining, Not Monolith
- Beijing's ministries bargain and jockey for influence rather than operate as a single unified will.
- Xi Jinping is powerful but works within an already fragmented, negotiated system.
Managed Local Elections
- Direct elections exist only at China's grassroots (villages, neighborhood committees).
- Party branches run parallel and supervise elected local bodies, limiting their independent power.
