Why are the two sessions increasingly popular?

Li Fengbin, deputy to the 11th National People's Congress, Dean of Politics and Law College, Baotou Normal University

He Feng, deputy to the 12th National People's Congress, President and Deputy Party Secretary of Qinghai University for Nationalities

With the continuous improvement of openness, the two sessions has increasingly become the platform for Chinese people to show concern about the fate of the country, the event which stirs democratic enthusiasm, and becomes a big stage to show the world the achievements of China’s economic and social development.

From Chinese and foreign media to the common citizens, the two sessions are becoming more and more popular. As a witness and participant, representatives attending the sessions have their own understandings.

A "political window" that is increasingly open

Li Fengbin: As a participant to the two sessions over the past five years, I think this "political window" is becoming more and more open; it fully reflects the democratic process of Chinese politics, and therefore receives more domestic and international concern.

I still remember, in March 2008, three migrant workers —Zhu Xueqin, Kang Houming and Hu Xiaoyan carrying the expectations of 150 million migrant workers, went from their workshops to the Great Hall of the People. That is the first time for the highest organ of state power to have migrant workers representatives.

Two years later, to follow the development progress requirements, the third session of the eleventh National People's Congress in 2010 passed the decision to amend the electoral law. The proportion of first-line workers and farmer representatives attending the two sessions this year significantly increased. This is another major step forward of the Chinese democracy.

He Feng: The two sessions were held every year, this year it is especially eye-catching. This year's two sessions will elect the new leaders of the national institutions. Where will China go? How to make the Chinese Dream come true? People at home and abroad are full of anticipation for the two sessions.

At the same time, in recent years, the representativeness, openness and inclusiveness of the two sessions have continued to improve. The proportion of grassroots deputies has increased significantly this year, and more demands from the grassroots get attention, increasing the "weight" of meeting.