In an attempt to keep up with the rest of the world, and perhaps ultimately dominate it, China has released numerous groundbreaking decisions that will change the face of the country. These changes, many of which are aimed at bolstering the Chinese economy and reputation, have huge implications for the world as a whole. Here's a rundown of the big moves that have been made in China during the last few weeks, the effects of which will play out over the next several weeks.
Shifting the one-child policy
China's famous one-child policy is getting a makeover. The rules previously stated that a couple in an urban area could only have one kid. The rule now says that if at least one member of a couple is an only child, they are qualified to have two children. Some say that the reason China changed the policy was to increase the number of people in the labor force. The influx of new workers would take a while, however, making it likely that the short-term effect of trying to make China appear more reform-minded, and more willing to relax the government's grip on society, are significant factors as well. Among urban Chinese, problems with the old policy include the loneliness of only children and the care of the elderly.
Shutting down labor camps
Shockingly, until now China openly ran labor camps with no end in sight. These camps, also called re-education camps, are for people who have committed a variety of crimes, ranging from disagreeing with the government to engaging in prostitution. The camps were set up in 1957, and hold at least 190,000 people according to the Chinese government, although other estimates predict that the numbers are much higher. Now, however, the Chinese government has announced plans to end these camps, which are known for massive human rights abuses and torture. This is a majory victory for newly elected President President Xi Jinping, who is far more reform-minded than many of his predecessors. This clearly represents a step away from draconian torture tactics being use in China. However, since labor camps only represent one form of mandatory detention, Amnesty International released a statement explaining that other forms of detention need to be reformed in China before comprehensive victory occurs.
Implementing free market reforms
China is making large strides towards liberalizing its economy so that it can continue rapid economic expansion. Changes include allowing private capital to set up small and medium sized banks. In addition, a huge slew of previously government-controlled industries will now allow private investors to participate in their expansion. These industries include aviation, coal and electricity. However, it does not appear as though China will fully privatize the 100 most lucrative, state-owned enterprises. This caution comes at least in part as a result of wariness toward President Obama's promised "pivot to Asia." Though the increased liberalization of China's economy may take place with careful steps, it is these policy changes that will likely have the most obvious impact on the world going forward. Given China's steps towards letting the rest of the world into its more liberalized economy, China could potentially enter the U.S.-led Trans-Pacific Partnership in the not too distant future. This would have important implications for the now-tense relations between the U.S. and China, bringing about a potentially stronger patnership.