The public is most concerned that anti-corruption measures and social security be discussed at the upcoming Two Sessions meeting, according to an online poll conducted by People's Daily Online.
As one of China's most important political events, the annual sessions of top legislative and political advisory bodies reliably attract public attention, since issues affecting Chinese people's daily lives are on the agenda.
Ahead of the conference, several major Chinese media outlets have conducted surveys on the most pressing issues for Chinese people. The poll run by People's Daily Online has seen over 1.6 million respondents as of press time. According to the poll, countercorruption was identified as the issue of greatest concern, attracting more than 230,000 votes on people.cn.
Acknowledging Chinese authorities' countercorruption achievements, respondents also shared their ideas on better methods for the prevention of corruption, with 25.9 percent supporting severe punishment and more exposure of corrupt officials. Another 20.8 percent urged strict supervision of officials' personal reports.
One respondent, identified by the username "Longchuwuyue," wrote that more attention should be given to countercorruption efforts at the grassroots level, and authorities should be required to reply to each legitimate whistle-blower.
Social security was determined to be the second most pressing issue. It has remained among the top three issues on the People's Daily Online survey for the past five years.
Another major concern is the country's aging population, with over 45 percent of respondents expressing concern over the trend. Issues relating to pensions and elder care were also hot topics in online discussion, with over 30 percent of respondents calling for a higher basic pension. Twenty-six percent complained about the high cost of elder care facilities, coupled with low service quality.
Apart from anti-corruption measures and social security, healthcare reform, employment and income distribution also ranked as top concerns.
The National People's Congress, China's top legislature, and the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, the top political advisory body, will convene their annual sessions on March 5 and March 3, respectively.
