China's State Key Institutions

These flashcards cover the structure and key institutions of the Chinese state and Communist Party based on the lecture notes provided.

What is the formal status of the People's Republic of China (PRC)?

The PRC is formally considered a unitary state.

What has been a recent trend in the distribution of power in China?

There has been a decentralization of power in practice, despite the formal unitary status.

How many parallel sets of institutions compose China's government?

Three parallel sets: state, party, and military.

What role does the Communist Party of China (CCP) play in governance?

The CCP is the key policy-making institution and operates alongside the state and military.

What is the dual role of state institutions in China?

State institutions are supervised by higher authorities as well as by parallel military and party institutions.

Who ultimately makes significant policy decisions in China?

Real decision-making power is exercised by party institutions in cooperation with the military.

What does China's Constitution enshrine?

It enshrines Communist Party power and contains elements of socialism alongside allowances for private ownership.

What is the function of the National People’s Congress in China?

It acts as a nominal legislature that rubber-stamps decisions made by top party leaders.

Who officially appoints the Premier of China?

The Premier is appointed by the President.

What is the Central Military Commission?

It is like a cabinet for the military, directing military policies and chaired by the President.

How does the judiciary function in China's government?

The judiciary has never acted as a meaningful check on the power of the executive or legislature.

What is a notable aspect of China's military role in politics?

The military does not have a tradition of military coups, despite its substantial influence.

What are the characteristics of the Chinese Communist Party?

It is hierarchical, not competitive, and operates without opposition, focusing on loyalty and patron-clientism.

What does Article 1 of China's Constitution state?

The PRC is a socialist state under the people's democratic dictatorship led by the working class.

In the context of governance, what does 'guanxi' refer to?

'Guanxi' refers to connections or relationships that facilitate recruitment and political loyalty.

What limits the power of local and provincial governments in China?

The central government is ready to intervene to enforce its will or prevent excessive political independence.

What recent changes have occurred regarding judicial review in China?

China has committed to establishing judicial review as a condition of applying to the WTO, aimed at protecting foreign investors.