Core Political Concept Explanation | Generated by AI
Question: What is an introduction to the “Two Upholds” (两个维护) in the new era of Chinese politics?
Answer:
The “Two Upholds” (两个维护 - liǎng gè wéihù) is a fundamental political concept in modern Chinese governance, specifically under the leadership of the Communist Party of China (CPC). It serves as the “top political priority” for Party members and is central to the political framework of the “New Era.”
## Core Definition
The “Two Upholds” refers to:
- Upholding General Secretary Xi Jinping’s core status on the Party Central Committee and in the Party as a whole.
- Upholding the Party Central Committee’s authority and its centralized, unified leadership.
### Historical and Political Context
The concept emerged and solidified during the 19th CPC National Congress (2017) and has since been written into the Party Constitution. It is viewed by the CPC as the ultimate guarantee for:
- National Unity: Ensuring the country remains stable and focused on long-term goals.
- Policy Execution: Minimizing local obstructionism to ensure central directives are followed nationwide.
- The “Great Rejuvenation”: Achieving the “Chinese Dream” by having a single, decisive point of leadership.
### Its Relationship with the “Two Establishes”
In the “New Era,” you will often see the “Two Upholds” paired with the “Two Establishes” (两个确立). They are functionally two sides of the same coin:
- The Two Establishes is the foundation (establishing the leadership and the ideology).
- The Two Upholds is the action (the continuous practice of supporting that leadership).
### Why It Matters Today
In practical terms, the “Two Upholds” is used to evaluate the political loyalty of officials. It demands that all levels of government align their local interests with the national strategy set in Beijing. It is the mechanism used to prevent “fragmented authoritarianism” and ensure the Party speaks with one voice on global and domestic issues.
Note: For those studying Chinese political science, the “Two Upholds” is considered the most critical “political discipline” (政治纪律) for any CPC member.
Would you like me to explain how the “Two Upholds” differs from historical leadership concepts under Mao or Deng?