'Based on extensive fieldwork and impressive analytic skills, Wen-Hsuan Tsai has produced the most detailed and informative account of the evolving political system in Xi Jinping's China that I have ever read. It is essential reading for everyone seeking to understand the management and deployment of political power in contemporary China. The book convincingly shows that even though Xi Jinping may have centralized power in his own hands, institutions still matter. Indeed, they are holding China together.’ —Kjeld Erik Brødsgaard, Copenhagen Business School
‘This engaging and thought-provoking academic work reflects the scholar’s dedication to enhancing our understanding of Chinese governance. It blends institutional resonance with leadership dynamics, addressing the knowledge gap in the West about the complexities of the Chinese Communist Party’s resilience and institutions. By examining the idiosyncrasies, risks and challenges of contemporary China—both a major global influence and the world’s second-largest economy—it encourages readers to reflect deeply on its governance and implications.’ —Hon S. Chan, City University of Hong Kong
‘As a leading scholar on China’s elite politics, Dr Wen-Hsuan Tsai reveals how Xi Jinping reshaped the party-state to achieve institutional centralization and made and implemented domestic and foreign policy as the supreme leader of China. This book opens the ""black box"" of Chinese leadership politics, policymaking and implementation. It is a must-read for anyone who wants to gain deep knowledge about political dynamics in contemporary China.’ —Suisheng Zhao, University of Denver
By:
Wen-Hsuan Tsai
Imprint: ANU Press
Country of Publication: Australia
Dimensions:
Height: 234mm,
Width: 156mm,
Spine: 18mm
Weight: 599g
ISBN: 9781760467173
ISBN 10: 1760467170
Pages: 302
Publication Date: 26 February 2026
Audience:
Professional and scholarly
,
Undergraduate
Format: Hardback
Publisher's Status: Active
List of illustrations Abbreviations Acknowledgements Introduction: Institutional centralisation—Concept, categorisation and operation Part I. The Leadership System Integrated fragmentation and the role of leading small groups in Chinese politics Reinforcing the power of China's Commission for Discipline Inspection Lifting the veil on the CCP’s personal secretary (mishu) system: Unrestricted informal politics within an authoritarian regime The authority, functions and political intrigues of the General Office of the CCP Central Committee Part II. Cadre Management The political socialisation of cadres in party schools The party’s Organisation Department and its 'alarm’ function in the promotion of officials Fast-track promotion: ‘Sprinting with small steps’ up the career ladder in Xi Jinping’s China – with Chien-wen Kou Part III. Reaching Out The united front model of ‘pairing-up’ in the Xi Jinping era New developments in the Communist Youth League and youth work Campaign-style enforcement: Incentivising cadres to implement the poverty alleviation policy Part IV. Tech Authoritarianism The big data bureau: China’s cloud governance and data dictatorship – with Ruihua Lin and Hsin-Hsien Wang Urban management in authoritarian China: How the smart city enhances comprehensive law enforcement – with Ruihua Lin and Hsin-Hsien Wang Conclusion: The role of China’s political institutions in the Xi Jinping era Bibliography Index
