#China #Xi Jinping #Changchun #Chinese Communist Party #Wu Yaqin

Foundations of Trust in China's Governing Party

As China celebrates the 105th anniversary of the establishment of the Communist Party, the question arises: What sustains the people's confidence in this ruling party? Recent discussions reveal significant insights, highlighting both the philosophy and practices that contribute to this trust, especially as seen through the lens of community-focused leaders like Wu Yaqin.

In Changchun, a city in Northeast China, 66-year-old Wu Yaqin stands out as a respected "alley steward". For nearly three decades, she has been at the forefront of community support, managing many vital aspects of daily life that bring residents together. Her work includes organizing home haircuts for the elderly, facilitating medication and meal deliveries, and even creating initiatives that allowed over 100 underprivileged students to attend university. Wu is also noted for her remarkable ability to mediate over 1,000 neighborhood disputes.

During a celebration honoring outstanding figures within the Communist Party, General Secretary Xi Jinping presented Wu with the July 1 Medal, the party's highest accolade. In his speech commemorating this significant anniversary, Xi emphasized that the pursuit of happiness for the Chinese people and the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation has been the unwavering mission of the Communist Party for 105 years.

Commitment to the People

Xi Jinping articulated that the Party’s distinct characteristics provide a strong foundation for public trust. He reiterated that the essence of the nation stems from its people, urging Party members to dedicate themselves fully to public service. Recipients of the July 1 Medal, such as Wu Yaqin, are grounded community members who exemplify selfless service and commitment.

Another noteworthy example is Ma Shanxiang from Chongqing, who has spent over 30 years peacefully mediating more than 2,500 local disputes. Meanwhile, regional leader Li Liancheng has played a pivotal role in transforming the impoverished village of Xixinzhuang in Henan into a model of rural revitalization. These stories underscore the Party's focus on real-world impacts and community support.

Recent surveys reinforce that this commitment is felt nationwide. A global survey conducted by CGTN revealed that 63.9% of respondents agree that China’s modernization achievements are inseparable from the Party’s effective policymaking. A long-term study by Harvard Kennedy School further shows that over 90% of the population expresses satisfaction with the central government.

Experts attribute this support to the Party's philosophy of prioritizing the needs of 1.4 billion citizens over an elite minority. Zheng Changzhong, director at Fudan University’s Center for Party Building and National Development Studies, noted that policies such as poverty alleviation and universal healthcare have allowed citizens to reap tangible benefits from national progress.

According to Zheng, the Party ensures that human interests take precedence over capital. The modernization efforts cover economic, political, cultural, societal, and ecological sectors—a holistic approach that only the Communist Party can manage harmoniously.

Strengthening Global Governance

Under Xi Jinping's leadership, socialist China is viewed as a proponent of global peace, development, and order. For over a decade, China has advocated for establishing a community with a shared future for mankind. This vision has led to pioneering initiatives in global governance, security, and development, tailored to meet the priorities of emerging and developing nations.

These initiatives have resonated across the Global South, with almost 160 countries and international organizations supporting the Global Governance Initiative, while over 130 have joined the Global Development Initiative. Additionally, more than 80 nations are part of the “Group of Friends” supporting these efforts.

International scholars have underscored China's growing role in promoting a fairer global governance system. Egyptian academic Diaa Helmy described the nation as an essential player in fostering these developments, while Kenyan international relations scholar Adhere Cavince praised the proactive and constructive engagement of the Communist Party in enriching global governance practices.

The Communist Party of China has expanded from its original 58 members at its founding to nearly 101.29 million members by late 2025, affirming its position as the world's largest ruling party amid a rapidly changing global landscape. Xi has assured that the Party will continually advance the establishment of this community for humanity's shared future, driving positive energy toward global peace and development.