As China prepares for its National People’s Congress focusing on stability, activists outside the country are meeting in Washington to discuss China‘s transition to democracy, Radio Free Asia (RFA) reports. This conference, led by exiled activists and former political prisoners, aims to create a plan for a democratic China.
The conference, known as the “National Affairs Conference,” draws inspiration from Taiwan’s democratic transition in the 1990s. It includes leaders like Wei Jingsheng, Wang Dan, and Wang Juntao, who have been at the forefront of pro-democracy movements in China. They intend to share their democratic vision with the world, including those in China, Wei told RFA.
During the closed-door seminar on March 2-3, these activists will outline a “blueprint for a democratic China.” This plan doesn’t seek to overthrow the current regime but to be prepared for a democratic future if the Communist Party’s rule collapses. Wei believes that the one-party dictatorship must end for democratization to begin, emphasizing that their blueprint aims to create a system better than those in Western democracies.
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Wang Dan spoke about focusing on “democratic nation-building,” stating that the new China should be based on constitutional government and democracy, starting from scratch. This includes reforming the legal, education, political, and economic systems.
Wang Juntao highlighted the goal of establishing a limited government that interferes less in people’s lives, a stark contrast to the current government’s control over citizens.
Meanwhile, in Beijing, the Politburo’s recent meeting emphasized “pursuing progress while maintaining stability,” setting the tone for the upcoming National People’s Congress. However, critics like U.S.-based commentator Ma Ju and Australia-based writer Yuan Hongbing argue that China‘s leadership lacks fresh ideas and is focusing on positive propaganda about the economy despite serious challenges, including a property bubble burst, government debt, and declining confidence.
This conference in Washington represents a significant effort by Chinese dissidents to plan for a future where democracy is possible in China, amid ongoing concerns over the country’s economic situation and political stability.
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