Beijing, China – In a landmark address on Monday, President Xi Jinping, who also serves as the General Secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Chairman of the Central Military Commission, emphasized the critical role of women in China’s relentless march toward modernization. During a detailed discussion with the newly appointed leaders of the All-China Women’s Federation, President Xi outlined a strategic vision for mobilizing and harnessing the capabilities of women to fuel the nation’s development.
Xi’s remarks come at a pivotal moment as China navigates complex internal and external challenges, including a changing global economic landscape and the ongoing quest for sustainable development. The President’s message reinforces the longstanding narrative of the Communist Party of China (CPC) that places significant emphasis on gender equality and women’s development as integral components of the socialist cause.
In his dialogue with the All-China Women’s Federation—a mass organization dedicated to the advancement of women’s rights and interests—President Xi stressed the importance of adhering to the socialist path with Chinese characteristics for women’s development. He called upon the federation to organize and motivate women to contribute their strengths to the broad objective of national rejuvenation.
“Women represent half of the population and therefore half of the sky,” President Xi said, echoing a famous statement by Chairman Mao Zedong about women’s crucial role in society. “Our pursuit of modernization is not only a process of economic and technological transformation but also a cultural and social evolution where the women of our nation must play an indispensable role.”
The President outlined a comprehensive strategy for women’s empowerment that includes enhancing education, increasing employment opportunities, promoting women’s health, and safeguarding legal rights. The strategy also emphasizes the promotion of women’s participation in decision-making and leadership as part of a broader move to ensure comprehensive representation in the country’s governance.
Xi pointed to the Chinese women who have made remarkable achievements in various fields, from space exploration to the front lines of the COVID-19 response, as evidence of the potential for women to contribute to national greatness. “The stories of women fighting against the epidemic, excelling in their professional fields, and serving the people are the stories of China itself,” Xi stated.
The President’s speech also highlighted the need to improve social systems and policies that support women, particularly in the realms of employment, education, and healthcare. He called for the establishment of more equitable and accessible services to ensure that women can fully participate in the workforce and society.
A notable aspect of Xi’s remarks was the attention given to rural women and the necessity of enhancing their roles in agricultural modernization and rural rejuvenation. “Our rural women are a dynamic force that must be engaged in the modernization of agriculture and the vitality of the countryside,” he said.
At the same time, Xi Jinping did not shy away from addressing challenges, including the need to combat discrimination and eliminate deeply entrenched gender biases that persist despite legal protections. He acknowledged the existence of such issues and urged for steadfast efforts to build a fair and just society where women can thrive.
The President’s call to action aligns with the goals outlined in the country’s latest Five-Year Plan and the long-term objectives for 2035, which prioritize the development of human resources and the creation of a more harmonious society.
Education was highlighted as a cornerstone for women’s development. Xi encouraged educational reforms that would provide women with the knowledge and skills required for the modern era. He spoke of innovation in education that takes into account the unique needs and potential of female students, aiming to foster a generation of women capable of leading China’s future.
Furthermore, the Chinese leader addressed the global context, acknowledging that women’s development is not an isolated national issue but a global one. He emphasized China’s commitment to participating actively in the international dialogue on gender equality and contributing to global women’s development.
As the session with the All-China Women’s Federation concluded, Xi Jinping’s address was more than just a policy speech; it was a clarion call for societal reform and a cultural shift towards recognizing and unleashing the power of half the population. By weaving the progress of women into the very fabric of China’s socialist modernization, Xi’s narrative indicates that the nation’s success hinges on the advancement of women in all spheres of life.
The reaction to Xi’s speech has been varied, with supporters praising it as a step forward for women’s rights in China, while some critics and international observers remain skeptical, waiting for concrete policies and measures to follow the President’s strong words.
In the wake of this address, the All-China Women’s Federation pledged to take practical steps to translate President Xi’s directives into actions that would tangibly benefit women across the country. The days ahead will likely see a series of initiatives aimed at fostering an environment where, as Xi Jinping envisages, women will play a significant and equal role in the narrative of China’s ascent on the world stage.
Read More: