Xi Jinping

Xi Jinping: The Man Behind the Curtain

Who is Xi Jinping, and why does he matter? Born in Beijing on June 15, 1953, to a communist veteran father, Xi Jinping has risen through China’s political ranks to become one of its most influential leaders. As the general secretary of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and chairman of the Central Military Commission since 2012, he is the seventh president of China, serving since 2013. His journey from a young boy in Beijing to the highest echelons of power is nothing short of remarkable.

Early Life and Exile

Xi’s early life was marked by political upheaval. His father, a high-ranking official, was purged during the Cultural Revolution, forcing the family into exile in Luoyang, Henan. This experience shaped Xi’s worldview, instilling in him a deep-seated commitment to the CCP and its principles.

Political Rise

After returning from his rural stint in Liangjiahe Village, Xi began his political career in earnest. His rise through the ranks was steady but not without challenges. He became governor of Fujian and Zhejiang before joining the Politburo Standing Committee in 2007. His tenure as governor saw significant economic reforms and development projects that laid the groundwork for his future leadership.

Leadership and Reforms

As president, Xi has pursued a more aggressive foreign policy, particularly with regard to the US, South China Sea disputes, and Sino-Indian border issues. He has also expanded China’s influence in Africa and Eurasia through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). However, his tenure is not without controversy. Increased censorship, mass surveillance, human rights abuses, and a cult of personality around his leadership have raised concerns both domestically and internationally.

Economic Policies

Xi’s economic policies have taken a different turn from market reformist to state control. He has supported the private sector while also bolstering state-owned enterprises (SOEs). His ‘dual circulation’ policy aims to reorient China’s economy towards domestic consumption, reducing its dependence on foreign trade and investment.

Human Rights and Social Issues

Under Xi, human rights have taken a backseat. The government has cracked down on grassroots activism, detained hundreds of activists, and imposed strict controls over the internet. In Xinjiang, mass detention camps for Uyghurs have been established, raising international concerns about ethnic cleansing.

Cultural Revival

Xi Jinping’s leadership has seen a resurgence in traditional Chinese culture. He emphasizes ‘two mountains,’ prioritizing green development alongside economic growth. The concept of the ‘Chinese Dream’ is central to his vision for China, aiming at national rejuvenation and global influence.

The Xi Jinping Thought

Xi’s political philosophies have been enshrined in the CCP constitution as ‘Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era.’ This ideology is seen as a continuation of Marxism–Leninism, Mao Zedong Thought, and other CCP doctrines. It emphasizes the importance of ideological purity and the central role of the CCP.

Conclusion

Xi Jinping’s leadership has been marked by significant reforms and challenges. While his policies have brought economic growth and global influence, they have also raised concerns about human rights and political freedoms. As China continues to evolve under his leadership, the world watches closely to see how these complex dynamics will play out.