A document hailed as a key propaganda program for the next decade has been released by the Central Committee
by Kong Fa
In a move that reaffirms the Communist Party of China’s commitment to ideological orthodoxy, the Central Committee has issued the “Regulations on the Ideological and Political Work of the Communist Party of China.” This new document, hailed by state media as “an important institutional guarantee,” codifies the Party’s expectations for ideological and political work across all sectors of society—from government agencies to private enterprises, schools, and even social organizations.
The regulations are more than bureaucratic reshuffle—they’re a full-throttle reaffirmation of the Party’s role as the ideological compass of the nation.
Ideological work must “adhere to the guidance of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era.” Every organization must embed Party ideology into its daily operations, training, and culture.
The regulations apply to Party organs, state-owned enterprises, private companies, schools, hospitals, and social organizations. Ideological work is no longer the domain of Party schools and propaganda departments only—it’s everyone’s business.
Ideological and political work will be assessed and audited. Organizations must report on their efforts, and failure to comply could affect leadership evaluations and institutional rankings.
Party members and cadres must undergo regular ideological training. The regulations call for “innovative methods” to ensure ideological work is “penetrating, appealing, and effective.”
The document emphasizes the need to “resolutely prevent and correct erroneous ideological trends.” While vague, this clause gives wide latitude to suppress dissent, alternative narratives, and anything deemed “unhealthy.”
This is the first time the Party has issued such a comprehensive set of regulations specifically focused on ideological and political work. It elevates ideological enforcement to the same level as Party discipline and organizational control. In effect, it institutionalizes loyalty—not just to the Party, but to its evolving ideological framework.
The timing is no accident. As China navigates economic headwinds, demographic challenges, and geopolitical tensions, the Party is doubling down on ideological unity. The regulations are a signal: in uncertain times, the Party’s grip on thought must be tighter than ever.
If ideology were fashion, this would be the season’s must-wear. But unlike a chic new coat, you can’t take it off. The regulations are a reminder that in Xi’s China, thought is not free—it’s curated, measured, and mandatory. And while the language is wrapped in bureaucratic velvet, the message is steel: think as the Party thinks, or don’t think at all.
