China's Militarized Government-Run Companies: A Threat to Democracy

TLDRChina is arming its government-run companies by setting up army-linked militias, which can be used for law enforcement and to suppress protests. These militias, along with Xi Jinping's promotion of the 'Fengqiao model', raise concerns of a return to the horrors of the Cultural Revolution. The use of state-owned business militias could make it harder for protesters to succeed and indicates Xi's potentially sinister plans.

Key insights

💣China is creating army-linked militias in its government-run companies.

🔒These militias can be called on for law enforcement and to suppress protests.

🔄Xi Jinping is promoting the 'Fengqiao model', which encourages vigilantism and mobilization against perceived enemies.

🔀The growth of these militias coincides with the decline of personal freedoms and human rights in China.

The purpose of these militias and Xi Jinping's plans remain unclear, leading to growing concerns about the future of democracy in China.

Q&A

What is the 'Fengqiao model'?

The 'Fengqiao model' refers to a campaign under Mao in the 1960s to purge perceived enemies. It encouraged vigilantism and mobilization against individuals deemed ideologically suspicious.

How could these militias impact personal freedoms?

The use of militias in state-owned companies gives the government greater control over local military operations and enables them to suppress protests and maintain social control.

Are these militias a new development?

These militias have been around for decades but were on the decline until recently. Their resurgence raises concerns about a return to the repressive policies of the past.

What are the concerns about Xi Jinping's plans?

Xi's promotion of the 'Fengqiao model' and the growth of government-run militias indicate a potential erosion of personal freedoms and a move towards stronger authoritarian control.

What impact could these militias have on democracy in China?

The existence of government-run militias raises concerns about the future of democracy in China, as they enable the suppression of dissent and provide increased control over society.

Timestamped Summary

00:00China is arming its government-run companies by setting up army-linked militias.

03:03Xi Jinping is promoting the 'Fengqiao model', which encourages vigilantism and mobilization against perceived enemies.

03:38The resurgence of these militias raises concerns about a return to the repressive policies of the past.

04:54The purpose of these militias and Xi Jinping's plans remain unclear.

05:54The use of these militias could have a significant impact on personal freedoms and democracy in China.