“Xi Jinping in charge: Political, Economic and Cultural Reforms in Contemporary China”

Abstract

The political system of the People's Republic of China (PRC) has evolved throughout history influenced by historical, cultural and ideological factors. The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has been instrumental in shaping a unique political regime that has guided the country's destiny. From the Opium Wars to the Chinese Revolution and the founding of the PRC in 1949, China has experienced critical moments that have left an indelible mark on its political structure.

This work analyzes the key characteristics of the Chinese political regime and its institutional structures. It highlights the changes from Mao Zedong's leadership to the economic opening led by Deng Xiaoping, but focuses especially on Xi Jinping's rise to power, marking the transition to the fifth generation of CCP leaders in 2012. Xi Jinping has implemented a careful political strategy and has consolidated loyalties within the party. Since his rise to power, he has addressed the challenges China faces due to its rapid economic development, positioning it as a global power. Xi has set priorities for a more influential and active China in international geopolitics, driving reforms in political, economic, social, cultural and educational areas.

For a better understanding, the work is divided into four parts: the first part contains the introduction and the methodological aspects of the research; the second part contains the analysis of the structure of the Chinese political system and the rise to power of the fifth generation of leaders. The third part focuses on the economic and social changes in China during Xi Jinping's first term and the strategies used to consolidate his foreign policy. Finally, in the fourth part we will find the cultural transformations that were promoted by the president, starting with the internal discipline of the Party up to the diffusion of the ancient Chinese culture to the rest of the world.