New Leaders, Old Challenges – China in Power Transition

The „Asia-Policy-Briefs“ analyze political and economic developments in Asia and reflect on their impact on Germany and Europe. The short briefing papers focus on current events as well as underlying trends in important Asian countries. In addition, they seek to develop concepts and strategies for politics and society on how to react to the ongoing change.

The conclusion in mid-November of the 18th National Congress of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) in November 2012 marked the completion of the first phase of China’s leadership transition. The party’s most important task during this phase was to select the Politburo Standing Committee, which is the party’s top decision-making body. In addition to the appointment of seven top leaders, the transition also entailed the selection of new Politburo and Central Committee members who represent the party’s 83 million members.

Minxin Pei points out the tremendous economic, political and societal challenges the new Chinese leadership is confronted with. He does not expect major changes in these areas. Instead he predicts that maintaining the status quo will be the priority of the new Chinese leadership.

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