The post-90s generation gets its turn at the NPC

During the 12th National People's Congress (NPC), there were only two NPC deputies who born in the 1990s. But at this year's session, this number has increased to almost 30. How do these young and promising national legislators stand out, and how do they perform their duties?

Growing up after China implemented its opening-up policy, those from the post-90s generation have benefited from a wealthier material life and better education.

Cui Jiuxiu is a community officer in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Despite her young age, her hard work and passion have earned her the trust and love of the local people, and also helped her become a deputy.

"When I was little, every year in March, when we saw a plane flying in the sky, my parents would say to me, 'Daughter, that plane might be flying towards the north, loaded with NPC deputies.' I never would have imagined that in the March of 2018, I would really fly to Beijing in a plane as a NPC deputy."

For Xiang Weiyi, a college graduate village official, and Zou Bin, a migrant worker, being an NPC deputy, was a far-off concept. They come from villages, and hope to make the voices from their hometowns better heard.

Deputies to the 13th National People's Congress walk at the Tiananmen Square, Beijing, March 5, 2019. /VCG Photo

Xiang Weiyi told CGTN that he brought several proposals which reflected needs from his area. "The improvement in material life has brought up the cultural and spiritual need for villagers. I found that among the 25 villages in my county, only one of them is equipped with culture center facilities. A large number of villagers asked me to raise their demands for building more of those facilities."

Zou Bin became a construction worker when he was only 16, and has won many national and international craftsman competitions. His humble background has made him emphasize improving the welfare of migrant workers.

"Migrant workers are facing challenges like unstable employment and little social welfare, so I focus on calling for improving their rights and interests," Zou said.

Attending a group discussion and sitting among other NPC deputies whose ages are more like their parents, their young faces and lack of experience may not gain them the biggest say, but they have their own strengths: a quick ability to learn, passion, and innovation.

Rukyam, who's the great-granddaughter of Uyhur patriot Kurban Tulum, said there are many qualities they can bring to the table. "For instance I joined the military when I was 16, serving on the Liaoning Aircraft carrier. So I can share my perspectives from this unique experience."

Those national legislators born in the 1990s are just a tiny fraction of the NPC deputies. Even though they are young and have limited experience, they can still contribute their passions and unique perspectives to the development of the nation.

(CGTN)