On the Rights Track

In a recently published speech, President Xi Jinping sheds light on China’s path for developing human rights. The remarks were first delivered at a group study session of the Political Bureau of the 19th Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee in late February.

Xi, also General Secretary of the CPC Central Committee, begins by stating that it’s a common pursuit of human societies to protect and value life and dignity, and to try to ensure that everyone enjoys human rights. He notes Chinese philosophers have emphasized similar points since ancient times. He quotes Confucius from the : “In ancient governance, the love of humanity was the greatest point.” He also quotes Mencius on benevolence, Xunzi on the “preciousness” of people,