China Strengthens Constitutional Supremacy in Lawmaking and Education

China's Commitment to Constitutional Supremacy

China has significantly increased its focus on constitutional matters in its legislative process over the past year. This emphasis aims to safeguard the authority of the Constitution and ensure that all laws align with the country's fundamental law.

Hou Xiaoguang, an official with the NPC Standing Committee's Legislative Affairs Commission, highlighted the importance of this research. He explained that the commission conducts research on constitutional issues and proposes opinions for every draft law before it is submitted to the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPC) for review. This process ensures that every piece of legislation conforms to the spirit of the Constitution, reflects its authority, and guarantees its implementation.

In addition to strengthening constitutional research in legislation, the NPC Standing Committee has also expanded constitutional education. This initiative aims to introduce the fundamental law to a wider range of audiences and improve its implementation. The commission has collaborated with legal experts at Peking University and China University of Political Science and Law to advance the development of a constitutional discipline system.

The NPC Standing Committee has also addressed concerns regarding regulations that restrict employment opportunities for individuals with criminal records. After receiving requests from residents to review these regulations, the commission contacted the regulators to understand the issue. The commission determined that employment restrictions or outright prohibitions in some regulations contradicted the Constitution's guarantee of the right to work. Consequently, the commission required the regulation providers to revise or adjust the content promptly.

China's commitment to constitutional supremacy is evident in its sustained progress in constitutional theories, systems, and practices. This progress provides a solid foundation for building China into a stronger nation and advancing its modernization goals. The designation of December 4th as National Constitution Day and the adoption of amendments to the Constitution in 2018 further demonstrate this commitment. The 20th CPC National Congress report outlined plans to optimize the socialist legal system with Chinese characteristics, with the Constitution at its core. These efforts underscore China's dedication to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that all citizens enjoy the rights and freedoms guaranteed by the Constitution.