When a foreign visitor spotted photos of national lawmakers working in a bustling Shanghai neighborhood, it wasn’t just a viral moment — it became a lesson in China’s whole-process people’s democracy. NPC deputy Sheng Hong, who’s served her community for 14 years, shared how democracy here isn’t just debated in Beijing… it’s lived door-to-door.
🏡 In Hongqiao subdistrict — home to 87,000+ residents from 50 countries — Sheng mediates disputes, listens to concerns, and turns policy into action. "Whole-process democracy means tackling real-life challenges in real time," she says, whether it’s noise complaints or helping expats navigate local systems.
🌐 The area welcomed 510 visiting delegations in 2024 alone, including 55 foreign groups. One visitor marveled: "Your legislators work here? In the community?" For Sheng, blending global perspectives with local governance is key. "Showing our diverse democratic practices to the world? That’s my pride."
📸 And those photos on the wall? They’re proof: In China’s democracy, the people’s voice isn’t just heard… it’s in the neighborhood.
