Civic Engagement and Petitioning in China: Analyzing Symbolic Venting through Arnstein’s Ladder

• In Event: Student Research: Politics of Public Policy

Abstract

Civic engagement in China has long been shaped by formal channels such as the petitioning system, known as “shangfang” or “collective petitioning.” Despite its prominence, petitioning in China remains largely a symbolic act, where citizens air grievances without gaining any real influence over governance. This study explores how petitioning fits within the broader context of civic engagement in China, using Arnstein’s Ladder of Citizen Participation to analyze the gaps between symbolic engagement and genuine empowerment. Arnstein’s model provides a theoretical framework to understand the dynamics of civic participation, ranging from tokenistic gestures to authentic, power-sharing partnerships between citizens and officials.

Specifically, the study asks: How do political and institutional factors in China prevent petitioning from moving up the ladder to higher levels of participation, such as partnership and delegated power? Drawing on Arnstein’s theory, the study explores how the Chinese system of petitioning remains entrenched in lower rungs of participation, offering the illusion of inclusion without real power-sharing.

The study employs qualitative research methods to assess the effectiveness of Chinese petitioning practices. Data are collected through interviews with petitioners, local officials, and archival research to understand the mechanisms of engagement. The study examines the barriers to advancing petitioning practices beyond the lower rungs (manipulation, therapy, informing, consultation) of Arnstein’s ladder, and explores the implications for deeper, authentic citizen participation.

Preliminary findings show that petitioning in China remains entrenched in the middle rungs of Arnstein’s ladder—particularly the “informing,” “consultation,” and “placation” stages. While citizens are allowed to voice grievances and officials provide token responses, these engagements do not lead to any real policy change or empowerment. 

Author

• Qinchao JING, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (Guangzhou)
  Presenting Author