China tightens control over civil servants' personal lives

Since Xi Jinping assumed power in 2012, the Chinese Communist Party has intensified scrutiny over the personal lives of its members and state employees, imposing restrictions on marriage, travel, and social activities. These measures are part of a broader campaign to combat corruption and mitigate national security risks, reflecting Xi's emphasis on strict discipline and political loyalty as essential for the party's survival. The rules affect tens of millions of people employed by the state, including public hospital staff, teachers, and workers in state-owned enterprises, with nearly 70 million state employees estimated in 2020.

One of the most significant restrictions is the long-standing ban on civil servants and those with access to significant secrets from marrying foreigners. This rule, while not new, has been more strictly enforced under Xi's leadership. Violations can lead to expulsion from the party, which effectively ends one's political career. Additionally, overseas travel for officials has been increasingly restricted, with controls extended to cover more people, especially those in senior positions or with access to confidential information. A former public servant recounted being denied permission to attend their son's graduation in Europe, despite having purchased a ticket, as the employer deemed it a red line that no one dared to cross.

The party's oversight extends to personal relationships and social activities. Divorce can trigger official examination, and extramarital affairs can cost a person their entire career. Party members are expected to prioritize party loyalty over personal life, with one individual noting that the party is "your family and your life." This has led to a culture of caution, where members take precautions such as meeting friends only after 10 p.m. to avoid scrutiny. The constant purges and internal discipline have made compliance a natural reaction, as members must not only perform their jobs well but also adhere to moral expectations and report any deviations by others.

The Chinese Communist Party, founded in 1921, has grown to over 101 million members, making it one of the world's largest ruling parties. Xi's approach has been described as having an "almost religious devotion to the party," and he seeks to instill the same loyalty in all members. However, experts suggest that he does not realistically expect such devotion from everyone, which is why he uses strict control measures to ensure compliance. The restrictions on personal life are thus a means to enforce loyalty and prevent any behavior that could threaten the party's authority or national security.