China is to increase the proportion of female and grassroot deputies to the people's congresses at all levels to expand citizens' participation in political affairs, said the National Human Rights Action Plan of China (2009-2010) released Monday by the Information Office of China's State Council.
According to the plan, the proportions of deputies from among ethnic minorities, returned overseas Chinese, women, grassroots workers, farmers and migrant workers in the total number of deputies to people's congresses at all levels will be increased appropriately.
In order to improve the people's self-governance at the grassroots level, the plan also said the coverage of direct elections of urban neighborhood committee members will be expanded, aiming to reach 50 percent by 2010.
It said democratic and scientific decision-making will be promoted to expand public participation in the decision-making process.
"In principle, public opinions will be solicited when laws, regulations or public policies which are closely related to the interests of the people are formulated," the plan said.
According to the plan, institution building will be promoted for holding public hearings on the legislation of important laws and regulations, soliciting public opinions for the formulation of major policies and measures, and holding expert consultation or third-party verification when making decisions over major issues.
Source: Xinhua
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