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The overarching theme emerging from China’s ongoing Communist Party congress is one of continuity, not change.
The weeklong meeting, which opened Sunday, is expected to reappoint Xi Jinping as leader, reaffirm a commitment to his policies for the next five years and possibly elevate his status even further as one of the most powerful leaders in China’s modern history.
A look at what’s happened so far, and what’s to come:
MORE OF THE SAME
This is not an inflection point for the party. That happened 10 years ago when it named Xi as leader, though it wasn’t evident at the time.
Since then, Xi has reoriented China both domestically and internationally. The military has staked claims to disputed territory while diplomats have become more assertive, saying China won’t be bullied by the U.S. and others.
Xi has brought back stronger state control over the economy and society, expanding censorship and arrest to stifle dissent. An unprecedented crackdown on corruption has brought down hundreds of senior officials, including some potential political rivals.
All of that is here to stay was the message from a one-hour and 45-minute party report that Xi delivered to the opening session on Sunday, extolling the party’s efforts toward what he calls the “rejuvenation” of the nation.
ELEVATING XI
Xi has already swept away competitors and consolidated power.
