Challenges in the Twenty-First Century

Abstract

As China enters the new century, it is clear that reforms have made enormous progress but the country is still far from being strong and wealthy as its leaders desire. The growth of its economy, its pending entry into the WTO, and its permanent seat on the UN Security Council mean that it is taken increasingly seriously in world affairs. However, there are considerable challenges ahead with the economic transformation and China has not clearly identified its role in the international community. This final chapter looks at four additional challenges that the CCP must confront if it is to survive the transition successfully. The first is the environmental challenge that has derived from the economic boom; environmental degradation has an increasing economic cost and reduces the quality of life for China’s citizens. Second, there is the systemic corruption that has arisen because of economic opportunity combined with the lack of accountability. Third, there are the challenges deriving from new communications technology. Fourth are the dangers that arise from insufficient political reform.