Protest and Resistance in the Chinese Party State

Protests and demonstrations in contemporary China have increased significantly, despite the state's repressive nature. This collection examines the factors that enable and constrain protest mobilization, highlighting their importance in understanding contemporary Chinese society.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 356 pages
Publication date: 24 February 2022
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

Despite being a repressive state, China has witnessed a remarkable surge in protests and demonstrations between 2005 and 2015, with the number of protests nearly tenfold increasing. This astonishing statistic is particularly noteworthy when contrasted with the past tolerance of Marxist-Leninist regimes, which exhibited minimal or no allowance for public dissent. The question arises: How can protests become more prevalent in a context of increasing state repression? This collection aims to provide insightful answers to this crucial query by delving into comprehensive analyses of various Chinese protest movements and the responses of the state. The chapters in this collection examine the potential avenues for protest mobilization and shed light on their significance in understanding contemporary Chinese society.

Introduction:
Contemporary China is often portrayed as a repressive state, characterized by strict government control over public expression and limited civil liberties. However, the reality is more complex, with protests and demonstrations increasing significantly between 2005 and 2015. This phenomenon raises important questions about the dynamics of protest in a context of state repression.

Surge in Protests:
The data reveals a remarkable surge in protests and demonstrations in China during this period. According to the Chinese Human Rights Defenders database, there were approximately 1,800 protests and demonstrations in 2005, which increased to over 18,000 in 2015. This represents a significant increase in the frequency and scale of public dissent.

Comparison with Past Regimes:
It is worth noting that the past tolerance of Marxist-Leninist regimes was relatively low, with little or no allowance for public dissent. The rise of protests in contemporary China is a testament to the changing political landscape and the growing demand for social and political change.

Opportunities and Constraints for Protest Mobilization:
The chapters in this collection explore the opportunities and constraints for protest mobilization in China. On the one hand, the increasing use of social media and the internet has provided new avenues for people to express their grievances and mobilize support. On the other hand, the Chinese government has implemented a range of measures to suppress protests, including surveillance, police brutality, and legal restrictions.

Significance of Protest Movements:
Protest movements in China have played a crucial role in shaping public opinion and pressuring the government to address social and political issues. Despite the challenges faced by protesters, these movements have demonstrated the power of collective action and the ability to bring about change.

Conclusion:
The surge in protests and demonstrations in contemporary China is a testament to the growing demand for social and political change in the country. While the state continues to employ repressive measures to suppress dissent, the resilience and determination of protesters show that the struggle for democracy and human rights is far from over. It is essential to continue to monitor and support these movements, as they are vital in promoting a more open and inclusive society in China.

Weight: 531g
Dimension: 218 x 156 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781538165027