Grassroots participation key to social governance

The transformation of China’s growth model does not lie only in economic restructuring to rebalance the government and the market, but also in the transition of society that entails redefining relations between government and society, said an article in 21st Century Business Herald. Excerpts:

The central government decided to establish a ministry-level joint conference mechanism on governance of residential community last week.

The main duty of the conference includes implementing the central authority’s policies, analyzing and solving problems in grassroots governance, strengthening the construction of grassroots governing bodies, and promoting the combination of official governance and self-governance and governance transparency.

Grassroots governance is the foundation for China’s social governance. Serving the people is a central task of social governance.

Social governance is by no means a job for the government only. Civil organizations, local governments and the people all have their respective roles to play in the process. The participation of private investment and social resources are also necessary to help the government meet pressing challenges in serving people’s needs.

For example, the government does not have the ability to provide enough nursing beds for the rapidly aging society in China. Opening the market for private investors is a win-win solution for both the people and the investors.

The information technology and network technology make it easier for the people to participate in the decision-making process of public policies and to supervise the grassroots governments’ operation.

Involvement in self-governance can develop people’s sense of responsibility, reasonable thinking and behavioral habits, which are important to avoid extreme thoughts and social conflicts and solve disputes.