China’s Democracy in Action: A Local Leader’s Decade of Dedication

When a foreign visitor stopped at a community center in Shanghai’s bustling Hongqiao district, they were stunned to see photos of national legislators working side-by-side with residents. "So China’s national legislators actually work right here in the community!" they remarked—a moment that NPC deputy Sheng Hong says captures the heart of China’s 'whole-process people’s democracy.'

Democracy Beyond Debates

Sheng, a community leader for 14 years, insists real democracy isn’t just about high-level policy talks in Beijing. "It’s in the daily grind—mediating neighbor disputes, solving local issues, and listening door-to-door," she shared during this year’s National People’s Congress session. Her district, home to expats and locals alike, thrives on this grassroots approach.

More Than a Policy Buzzword

For Sheng, 'whole-process democracy' means turning feedback into action. Whether it's upgrading public spaces or streamlining services, she says every small win builds trust. "It’s not abstract—it’s people seeing their ideas shape the streets they live on."

As global interest grows in China’s governance model, stories like Sheng’s highlight a system where local voices fuel national progress.

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NPC deputy proud of China's whole-process people's democracy

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