China has made historic strides in promoting gender equality and ensuring the all-round development of women, with officials highlighting the progress as a defining feature of the country’s modernization in the new era. A white paper released by the State Council Information Office outlines the philosophy, principles, and policies that have transformed the status of Chinese women and reinforced the country’s global role in advancing gender equality.

The report credited the Communist Party of China (CPC) and President Xi Jinping’s leadership for placing women’s empowerment at the heart of national rejuvenation. Since the 18th CPC National Congress in 2012, gender equality has been integrated into the “Two Centenary Goals”—building a moderately prosperous society and realizing national rejuvenation. Officials said this vision has created opportunities unprecedented in China’s history for women to realize their potential and contribute to national progress.

Chinese women have made remarkable gains in education, with female students now accounting for more than half of all university enrolments nationwide. This achievement has translated into stronger representation in the workforce, particularly in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields, where women are playing an increasingly visible role. Employment opportunities for women have also expanded in tandem with the country’s modernization, particularly in emerging sectors driven by the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

From digital technologies to advanced manufacturing, women are now contributing significantly to industries that will shape China’s future. China has reinforced its legal and institutional framework to protect women’s rights. Amendments to the Advertising Law, along with gender-sensitive regulations in media and cyberspace, aim to eliminate discriminatory practices, ensure women’s dignity, and foster positive portrayals of their role in society.

Judicial interpretations and targeted campaigns have also been launched to combat online harassment, fraud, and trafficking, while holding digital platforms accountable for harmful content. Campaigns such as Bloom of China and nationwide publicity drives have further raised awareness about women’s achievements, promoting greater respect and recognition for their contributions in all walks of life. The white paper underlined that women are central to the country’s modernization journey. By promoting digital literacy and technological empowerment, the government is ensuring that women can fully participate in the rapidly evolving digital economy.

Training programs, innovation initiatives, and support for female entrepreneurs have opened new avenues for women to engage in high-value economic activity. Officials stressed that women’s development is not only a social issue but also a driver of economic transformation. With greater access to education and leadership roles, women are now influencing policies, businesses, and communities across China.

China’s contributions extend well beyond its borders. In 1995, Beijing hosted the landmark Fourth World Conference on Women, which produced the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action—a framework that continues to guide international efforts toward gender equality.

Since then, China has maintained an active role in promoting women’s rights on the global stage. At the 2015 Global Leaders’ Meeting on Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment, President Xi Jinping reaffirmed China’s commitment, pledging initiatives that benefitted women worldwide. In 2020, at the UN General Assembly session marking the 25th anniversary of the Beijing Conference, Xi once again underscored the need for stronger global cooperation.

Looking ahead, China has proposed hosting another Global Leaders’ Meeting on Gender Equality in 2025, a move seen as reaffirming its long-term dedication to the cause. While progress has been significant, the report noted that challenges remain, both domestically and globally. Issues such as discrimination, gender-based violence, poverty, and the disproportionate impact of climate change on women continue to hinder equality.

President Xi has emphasized that addressing these issues requires collective global efforts. China, for its part, is promoting multilateral cooperation, people-to-people exchanges, and mutual learning among nations to strengthen the global gender equality movement. Officials concluded that the achievements of Chinese women in the new era are a testament to the country’s inclusive policies and strategic leadership.

Women today enjoy broader rights, stronger protections, and greater opportunities than at any time in the nation’s history. “As China continues on its path of national rejuvenation, it remains committed to ensuring that women play an equal and vital role in shaping the country’s future,” the white paper said. “By working with the international community, China aims to contribute to a new chapter in the global advancement of women.”

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP) — Pak-China