FENG Shizheng: Advancing High-Quality Development of Cities in the New Era to Create a Happier and Better Life for the People

FENG Shizheng, Vice President of Renmin University of China, published an article in People’s Daily titled “Advancing High-Quality Development of Cities in the New Era to Create a Happier and Better Life for the People”. The key points of the article are as follows:

Feng emphasizes that urban development in the new era should adhere to Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era, focus on the people, and fully promote high-quality development of people-oriented cities to create a happier and better life for all. He elaborates on the direction and priorities of urban development from three key perspectives.

First, urban development must always remain “people-oriented”.

Feng stresses that cities belong to the people, and urban planning should not prioritize infrastructure over people’s needs. It is essential to integrate a people-oriented approach into every detail of urban planning and construction, avoiding the mere pursuit of grandiose and ostentatious physical structures at the expense of residents' convenience and well-being. Furthermore, development should not rely solely on general averages but must account for individual differences. Inclusive development must be prioritized, ensuring that all groups—especially migrant populations from rural areas, low-income individuals, and the elderly—benefit from urban progress. Additionally, urban development must not come at the cost of rural decline. Cities and rural areas should complement each other, fostering urban-rural integration and co-development.

Second, urban development should focus on “people’s lives.”

Feng points out that the ultimate goal of urban development is to enhance the happiness and comfort of people’s lives. This requires managing the relationships between people and nature, people and society, and people and infrastructure, promoting a harmonious cycle between production, living, and ecology. He highlights the social functions of cities, suggesting that physical spaces should facilitate social interactions and integration. Hasty large-scale demolitions and reconstructions must be avoided, as they can harm the historical and social fabric of cities. By preserving the social networks and cultural heritage of urban spaces, cities can create vibrant environments for social engagement, further improving residents' quality of life and sense of belonging.

Third, urban development must embody “whole-process people’s democracy”.

Feng underscores that city residents are the main stakeholders in urban development. Their voices must be respected, their collective aspirations mobilized, and their wisdom incorporated throughout the entire process of urban planning, construction, and management. Strengthening grassroots governance is essential, and leveraging Party leadership ensures that central policies are implemented effectively at the community level. At the same time, encouraging public participation in grassroots governance fosters collaboration, enabling the creation of a shared governance system that benefits everyone. Urban management must also keep pace with changing times, carefully analyzing the evolving and diverse needs of the population to adapt strategies and enhance service delivery.

In conclusion, Feng asserts that cities are the primary settings for people’s lives. Promoting urban development requires unwavering commitment to a people-first philosophy. By improving the precision and scientific basis of urban management, cities can continuously meet the public’s aspirations for a better life, becoming true homes of happiness for all.

(Translated by ZHANG Yuqing; Proofread by YANG Fanxin)