#China #Hangzhou #Yuhang District #Xiaogucheng Village #grassroots governance

Grassroots Governance in Yuhang District

In August 2025, a noteworthy assembly of experts and scholars took place in Beijing, focusing on the remarkable progress made by Yuhang District in Hangzhou, China's Zhejiang Province. The spotlight was on how grassroots democratic consultation in Xiaogucheng Village has played a pivotal role in enhancing both economic development and social governance over the past two decades.

Over the years, this village has transitioned from a system where village affairs were dictated by collective discussions to a more sophisticated model in which public matters are resolved through public deliberation. This evolution reflects a dedication to nuanced governance practices that prioritize the opinions and needs of the community.

The Xiaogucheng Village Party Committee has aggressively promoted the democratic consultation process, addressing various issues that affect villagers' quality of life and aspirations for development. As a result, the path for growth has become increasingly clear, fostering social stability, accelerating economic growth, and raising the living standards of residents. By 2024, the village boasted a collective income of approximately 12.18 million yuan, with the per capita disposable income reaching 58,414 yuan. These figures illustrate a staggering 38-fold increase in collective income and a 9.16-fold increase in individual income since 2005.

A district official articulated the depth of the principle that governs Yuhang’s administrative success, stating, "The principle of 'public matters resolved by public deliberation' is deeply rooted and flourishing in Yuhang." Over twenty years, this region has fine-tuned its approach, fostering a pattern of grassroots governance that emphasizes collaboration, shared management, and mutual benefits among the community.

This foundational governance model acts as a catalyst for exceptional regional economic performance. In 2024, Yuhang District experienced a six percent GDP growth year-on-year, reaching an impressive 335.567 billion yuan. This achievement reaffirms its status as the largest economy in Zhejiang by output while also leading Hangzhou in growth rate. The disposable income for rural residents also improved, seeing a 6.2 percent increase to surpass 58,000 yuan, marking the eighth consecutive year Yuhang has topped comprehensive evaluations in Hangzhou.

From the localized success in Xiaogucheng Village to the district-level accomplishments in Yuhang, the initiative of resolving public matters through deliberation showcases the dynamic capabilities of grassroots democratic practices in China. This model not only enhances social cohesion but also ensures that the development is inclusive, benefiting a broader array of citizens. The Yuhang experience serves as a case study on how thoughtful governance can lead to sustainable economic health and community-wide prosperity.

Through this ongoing journey of grassroots consultation and co-managed governance, Yuhang District positions itself as a blueprint for other regions aiming for high-quality social and economic development, underscoring the potential of democratic engagement in shaping local governance practices.