One lasting change in China’s domestic policy since the Tiananmen Square protests in 1989 has been the increased focus on maintaining political stability and social control. In the wake of the protests, the Chinese government implemented stricter measures to suppress dissent and control public discourse, leading to a more authoritarian approach to governance.
This included the enhancement of surveillance systems, the tightening of internet censorship, and the expansion of state security apparatus. The government has since prioritized stability over liberal reforms, emphasizing a narrative of economic development and national rejuvenation while actively suppressing movements that could challenge the party’s authority. This policy shift marks a significant pivot towards a model where economic growth is accompanied by limited political freedoms, often referred to as "authoritarian capitalism." This trend continues to shape China's political landscape today.
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