“A structure of social governance by the people and for the people”

the initiative to build a structure of social governance by the people and for the people is highlighted in the Outline of the 13th Five-year Plan for Economic and Social Development (2016–20), released in March 2016. Social governance is seen as a process that entails participation by all, rather than one characterized by a division between the governing elite and those being governed. The outline provides guidance for implementing such an initiative.

Central to governance by the people and for the people is full participation in processes that bear on the wellbeing of society as a whole and full enjoyment of benefits therefrom by all members of society. As an innovative initiative, it serves to integrate government functions with contributions from society and public engagement, balance the pursuit of material interests with consensus on moral responsibilities, and underscore the need for joint efforts and benefit sharing.