Xi Jinping has used his time in power to assert China's global economic and military power, tightening the grip of the Communist Party and potentially remaining in power for life.
Xi Jinping's assertive domestic and foreign policies, including the unresolved issue of Taiwan and military flexing in the South China Sea, have strained China's relations with other countries and raised concerns about potential conflicts and engagement with the international community.
Deep dives
Xi Jinping's Rise to Power
Xi Jinping is likely to be confirmed for another five years in office as the leader of the Chinese Communist Party. He has used his first decade in power to tighten the grip of the party at home and assert China's global economic and military power. The abolition of term limits allows him to potentially remain in power for life. His strong leadership style and crackdown on corruption have polarized opinions. His consolidation of power and centralization of decision-making have faced criticism for undermining collective leadership and stifling dissent.
China's Foreign Relations and Regional Tensions
Xi Jinping's assertive domestic policies also extend to foreign relations. The unresolved issue of Taiwan remains a top priority, as Xi considers it a breakaway province that needs to be brought back into mainland control. His military flexing, particularly in the South China Sea, and the increasing repression in Hong Kong have strained China's relations with other countries. The perception of rising nationalism and an uncompromising stance on territorial integrity have raised concerns about potential conflicts and China's engagement with the international community.
Economic Challenges and Xi Jinping's Policies
China's economic growth has faced challenges, including slowing growth rates, a property market boom, and the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Xi's policies, such as the crackdown on disorderly capital and the prioritization of state-owned enterprises over private entrepreneurs, have raised concerns about innovation and entrepreneurship. The shift towards self-reliance and domestic consumption, known as dual circulation, has also impacted foreign investment and economic relations with other countries. The long-term implications of these policies and their impact on China's economic growth remain uncertain.
Zero COVID Policy and Surveillance State
China's zero COVID policy, initially aimed at demonstrating the superiority of the Chinese system, has resulted in mass lockdowns and strict surveillance measures. The enforcement of QR codes and tracking apps has created an extensive surveillance state, raising concerns about privacy and human rights. The policy's impact on the economy, including youth unemployment and declining exports, has further added to China's challenges. Despite criticism and growing unpopularity, the zero COVID policy persists, highlighting Xi's commitment to maintaining control and stability.
This month China’s President Xi Jinping is expected to secure a further five years as the country’s leader after the Communist Party abolished two-term limits. It opens the door to Xi continuing to rule for the rest of his life. His time in power has seen the country take a more confrontational approach to many of its neighbours as well as to the West. China’s GDP continues to grow and living standards for most citizens have risen, but some fear the ‘economic miracle’ of recent decades may be coming to an end and that rising tensions over Taiwan and Hong Kong could lead to conflict. So, who is Xi Jinping? What makes him tick? And what are his plans for the future of China?
Ritula Shah is joined by a panel of expert guests.
Daniel R. Russel - Former US Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs (2013 - 2017), currently Vice President for International Security and Diplomacy at the Asia Society Policy Institute (ASPI), New York
Lucy Hornby - visiting scholar at the Fairbank Center for Chinese Studies at Harvard University, formerly of Reuters and the FT
Steve Tsang - Director of the China Institute at SOAS, The University of London
Also featuring:
Victor Gao - Vice President of the Center for China and Globalization, a think tank based in Beijing
Producers: Paul Schuster and Ellen Otzen
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