Chinese Public Concerns Rise Over Economic Future Amid Xi Jinping's Worries
- Research from 2004 to 2023 shows a significant rise in public pessimism about economic prospects in China.
- Only 28.3% of respondents believe that hard work leads to success, with many attributing wealth to family privilege.
- The increase in economic grievances has resulted in a rise in protests, indicating growing discontent among the population.
In recent years, public sentiment in China has shifted significantly, particularly regarding economic prospects. Research conducted between 2004 and 2023 indicates a growing pessimism among the population, with only 28.3% believing that hard work leads to success. This contrasts sharply with the optimism of 2004, where nearly 60% felt their economic situation had improved. The rise in economic grievances has also led to an increase in protests, with an 18% rise in dissent events reported in the second quarter of 2024 compared to the previous year. The Communist Party is reportedly concerned about these trends, as they reflect broader discontent among citizens. The study's findings highlight the perception that wealth is increasingly tied to family privilege and connections rather than individual effort, further fueling dissatisfaction. The exclusion of certain regions, such as Xinjiang and parts of Tibet, from the survey may also impact the overall understanding of public sentiment across the country.