【CGTN】Experts: A model for democracy is always evolving

A discussion on democracy based on shared human values is ongoing in Beijing among scholars, public policy and governance experts from 50 countries, regions and international organizations. CGTN’s Wang Siwen tells us more from the International Forum on Democracy.

The International Forum on Democracy is now in its second phase, with the topics focused on the development and innovation of a model for democracy.

Wang Huiyao, president of Center for China and Globalization said China has adapted a democracy that’s suitable for its circumstances. He said China’s rapid economic development has led to the rise of three kinds of democracy. These are based on talent, market diversification, and technological access.

WANG HUIYAO Founder and President, Center for China and Globalization “With the continuous improvement of education level, 218 million college graduates and party members across the country have laid a solid foundation for the implementation and development of virtuous democracy. China currently has one billion smartphone users, and Internet users have a highly diversified choice. The third unique form of democracy that is emerging in China is technological democracy. With the gradual increase in the penetration rate of the digital economy in China, big data, cloud computing and artificial intelligence have gradually provided more technical support means for social governance.”

A professor from the National Academy of Sciences in Belarus said access to education is key to a nation developing values such as democracy.

DZMITRY SMALIAKOU Professor of Institute of Philosophy, National Academy of Sciences of Belarus “In previous eras progress has been achieving through the violence; in the modern world, it is achieved exclusively by universal education that cultivates creative, innovative and research qualities of a person.”

Different systems of democracy can be reconciled if there was respect and a willingness to learn from each nation’s best practices, said professor from Brazil.

EVANDRO CARVALHO Professor, Getulio Vargas Foundation, Brazil “The democratization of the international system will have better benefits if based on learning from the successful experiences of each country without ideological prejudices.”

But ensuring the fruits of a real democracy, such as prosperity for all, can only be achieved if countries stand united.

ZHANG WEIWEI Director of the China Institute, Fudan University “Only with unity can we have prosperity for everyone, and global prosperity. It is necessary for people all over the world to unite to fight against the interests of the self-serving military group, and only then can the interests of the third world countries be considered.”

WANG SIWEN Beijing “Democracy has gradually evolved as a result of social change and development. And people around the world have different views on democracy, but the participants at the forum say no matter how you define democracy, its ultimate goal should be people’s welfare. WSW, CGTN, Beijing.”

From CGTN， 2021-12-11