Making democracy work: The crafting and manipulation of Chinese village democracy by political elites

Abstract

The introduction of competitive village elections and self-governance into rural China is one of the most significant political reforms implemented by the Chinese Communist Party and Government since the end of 1970s. Based on theoretical analyses and empirical studies, this research examines how political elites crafted village democracy in rural China. The central argument is that the crafting of village democracy in China by political elites at different levels must be given a higher priority by researchers, especially those interested in democratization in the country. By asking whether political elites have played important roles and wisely chosen and used relevant strategies to promote rural democracy, this thesis concludes that democracy in rural China can emerge and develop despite disparities in village elections across different provinces.