The Two Centenary Goals (两个一百年) are key milestones in the realization of the Chinese Dream, providing a timeline for China’s development and modernization. They serve as strategic objectives for building a prosperous, strong, and harmonious socialist society.
The First Centenary Goal (2021):
Achieve a “moderately prosperous society” (小康社会, Xiǎokāng Shèhuì) in all respects by the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).
The Second Centenary Goal (2049):
Build a “fully modernized socialist country” that is wealthy, strong, democratic, culturally advanced, and harmonious by the 100th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China (PRC).
These goals reflect a comprehensive vision for national rejuvenation, blending economic, social, political, and cultural progress.
The Two Centenary Goals were first articulated under Jiang Zemin in the 1990s and later refined by Hu Jintao and Xi Jinping. They respond to the CCP’s long-term strategic planning tradition, which has been central to its governance philosophy. The concept also draws inspiration from the Confucian ideal of Xiǎokāng, a moderately well-off society, adapted to the socialist context.
The First Centenary Goal was officially declared achieved in 2021, with the elimination of extreme poverty and significant economic and social progress.
First Centenary Goal (2021):
Economic Development:
Achieve a per capita GDP that supports a modestly prosperous standard of living.
Social Progress:
Eliminate extreme poverty, improve education and healthcare, and address regional disparities.
Environmental Sustainability:
Integrate ecological goals into development.
Second Centenary Goal (2049):
Modernized Economy:
Achieve technological self-sufficiency and global leadership in innovation.
Strengthened Governance:
Develop efficient, transparent, and rule-based governance structures.
Global Influence:
Establish China as a global leader in diplomacy, trade, and cultural exchange.
Cultural Confidence:
Promote Chinese cultural heritage and values worldwide.
For Chinese citizens, the Two Centenary Goals represent a roadmap for national progress and personal betterment. The First Goal’s success in eradicating extreme poverty and improving infrastructure has bolstered public confidence in the CCP’s governance. The Second Goal inspires optimism for continued modernization and global leadership.
Key Achievements for the First Centenary Goal:
Poverty Eradication:
Over 800 million people lifted out of poverty since the 1980s, with extreme poverty officially eliminated in 2020.
Infrastructure Development:
Comprehensive urbanization, high-speed rail expansion, and modernized cities.
Healthcare and Education Access:
Dramatic improvements in rural healthcare systems and universal nine-year education.
1. Infrastructure Projects:
China’s high-speed rail network, the world’s largest, connects regions and promotes economic integration, embodying progress toward a modernized society.
2. Belt and Road Initiative (BRI):
This global infrastructure project supports the Second Centenary Goal by expanding China’s economic and diplomatic influence.
3. Technological Innovation:
Advancements in fields such as 5G, AI, and renewable energy align with the Second Goal’s focus on modernization and global leadership.
4. Urbanization Efforts:
Transforming rural areas into economically vibrant urban hubs has been central to achieving the First Centenary Goal.
5. Green Energy Development:
China’s investments in renewable energy and carbon neutrality goals reflect the emphasis on sustainable development.
Moderate Prosperity vs. Wealth:
Americans may interpret Xiǎokāng as equivalent to Western standards of affluence, while it refers to a modestly well-off society that prioritizes stability and equity.
Strategic Planning:
The long-term nature of the Two Centenary Goals may contrast with shorter-term policy cycles common in Western democracies.
National Rejuvenation as Expansionism:
Aspirations for global influence may be perceived as expansionist, overlooking the emphasis on mutual benefit and cooperation in Chinese discourse.
The Two Centenary Goals reflect a profound national commitment to building a better future, inspiring pride and unity among Chinese citizens. For the CCP, these goals demonstrate its ability to set and achieve ambitious targets, addressing the needs of both the present and future. By achieving the First Goal and progressing toward the Second, China continues to advance its vision of a prosperous and harmonious society.