Women in Politics Radio Story
“Like many other governments today, the CCP also lacks the representation of female politicians. As stated on Quota Project, an online source, in 2007 a law was enacted in China saying, ‘among deputies to the 11th National People’s Congress, women shall take up a proportion not less than 22 per cent’ (Article 8). Nearly ten years after this quota was instituted, the percentage of female members of the 12 NPC, which will serve from 2013–2018, only increased to 23.4%. As described by USA Today, since the CCP took power in 1949, no woman has ever been president. The article suggested that a lack of transparency in selecting officials, is the cause of female underrepresentation. However, according to interviews with two experts on the topic, the reason is much more complex.”
“According to Shi Xuehua, a professor at Beijing Normal University on the study of politics…”
“Just as this belief developed over years, it cannot be changed overnight. However, there are many efforts being made.”
“A PhD from Peking University, who chose to remain anonymous, said…”
Shi Xuehua, the professor from Bei Shi Da, claimed since Xin Jinping, China’s current President, came to power, active measures have been taken to increase women’s opportunities in education and politics.” (interview)
“One female in particular has made a huge impact. According to the Telegraph, at the UN headquarters in September, Xi’s wife, Peng Liyuan spoke, in English, on the importance of education for women and girls. The wives of former Chinese presidents often stayed away from the public eye. Peng, breaking from the trend, was recently added to Forbes’ list of the most powerful women in the world.”
“On the topic of accomplished women, when asked what the influence of women in higher positions of the CCP would be, Xue Hua responded…” (interview)
As China continues to move away from a traditional patriarchal system and embrace modernization, women will have a stronger role in the CCP. The world cannot evolve if only half of the population is invited to participate in the discussion.
Citations:
“China.” China | QuotaProject: Global Database of Quotas for Women. N.p., 2015. Web. Dec. 2016.
He for She Campaign. Perf. Emma Watson. N.p., 22 Sept. 2014. Web.
Ren, Yuan. “While Xi Jinping Charms Britain, China’s Struggling Women Wait.” The Telegraph. Telegraph Media Group, 21 Oct. 2015. Web. Dec. 2016.
MacLeod, Calum. “China’s Women Struggle to Breach Male-heavy Politics.” USA Today. Gannett Satellite Information Network, 11 Mar. 2013. Web. Dec. 2016.
CNN. “Clinton to All Girls: Don’t Doubt You Are Valuable.” YouTube. YouTube, 09 Nov. 2016. Web. Dec. 2016.
