China: Development And Governance

China has achieved significant internal socioeconomic progress and has become a key player on the international stage after several decades of open-door and reform policy. Looking beyond China's transformation, this book focuses on the theme of governance which is widely regarded as the next most critical element to ensure that China's growth remains sustainable. Today, China is confronted with a host of pressing challenges that call for urgent attention. These include the need to rebalance and restructure the economy, the widening income gaps, the poor integration of migrant populations in urban areas, insufficient public housing and healthcare coverage, the lack of political reforms, and environmental degradation. In the foreign policy arena, China is under pressure to do more to address global concerns yet must be careful not to appear overly aggressive. The next steps China takes will significantly depend on governance—how it addresses domestic and foreign challenges. This book, with 57 short chapters based on scholarly research, is accessible and useful for non-specialists interested in developments in East Asia, including coverage of Japan, Korea, and cross-strait relations.