China’s Political System Explained: Why Vast Majority Support ‘People’s Democracy’

What is China's political system really like? China’s Constitution calls for “leadership of the Communist Party of China” over a “system of multiparty cooperation and political consultation.” But could it actually have more “democratic” practices than the U.S.? Western media often frames China as a totally authoritarian top-down state, but this narrative doesn't explain the high levels of public satisfaction reported in studies like the one from Harvard. This week, Amanda Yee is joined by Paweł Wargan, Political Coordinator for the Progressive International, to debunk common Western myths and discuss the reality of China's governance model. The two dive deep into the country’s "whole-process people's democracy," how it functions, and why it enjoys widespread popular support.

Read Pawel and Jason Hickel’s article “Building Whole-Process People’s Democracy in China” :

Our understanding of China — and U.S.-China relations — has become a defining feature of all global politics. The China Report is a weekly show that provides an independent view of the country we are taught to hate, but know so little about. We help you navigate beyond the headlines with expert analysis and on-the-ground perspectives.