In a recent directive, President Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of placing people at the center of governance, particularly in the work of civil affairs. He called for heightened leadership in this area and for the development of inclusive, foundational social support systems that address the immediate and practical concerns of the public. The goal is to continuously drive the high-quality development of civil affairs in line with the significant achievements made in recent years. Local governments and civil affairs departments are encouraged to deeply understand and implement these directives as they work towards enhancing the quality of civil affairs.
Since the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party, President Xi has consistently engaged with communities and listened to the voices of the people, making important statements and directives regarding civil affairs. His hands-on approach showcases his deep commitment to the well-being of the populace.
Under the concept of Chinese-style modernization, the focus is primarily on people’s livelihoods. This includes improving social assistance systems, enhancing elder care services, ensuring child welfare, promoting charitable activities, and reforming marriage customs. Civil affairs work is directly connected to the public and serves as a fundamental aspect of social governance that embodies moral responsibility. The development of civil affairs aims to ensure that the benefits of modernization are shared by all, facilitating significant progress toward common prosperity, especially for those in difficult situations. This reflects the Party’s governing philosophy and is a mark of social progress, essential to the notion of Chinese-style modernization.
Public sentiment is paramount in politics, and the work of civil affairs is inherently linked to people’s lives and needs. Local governments should consider civil affairs development from a political perspective, recognizing that “the people are the foundation of the nation.” This means integrating issues that affect citizens’ daily lives into strategic planning and work agendas to enhance their sense of fulfillment, happiness, and security. By fostering a collaborative atmosphere, civil affairs departments must focus on grassroots engagement, addressing everyday challenges faced by the public while demonstrating care and commitment to their well-being.
Xi Jinping’s directives bestow a noble mission upon civil affairs in the new era. Local departments must adhere to the principles of people-centered governance throughout all stages of policy-making and implementation. This involves maintaining an original intent to serve the public, strengthening leadership, deepening reforms, and enhancing various systems related to policy, service, oversight, and social participation. Special attention should be given to responding to the challenges posed by an aging population and improving levels of social rescue, welfare, and governance to genuinely address the needs of citizens.
With the understanding that no detail is too small when it comes to people’s livelihoods, civil affairs workers across the nation are called to rigorously apply President Xi’s important insights and directives. They should fully implement the decisions made at the recent Party Congress with a proactive, responsible attitude, aiming to alleviate public concerns and improve lives through effective reforms and innovative practices, thereby striving for a new phase of high-quality development in civil affairs.
