China Cracks Down on Cadre Secondments to Boost Local Governance

The regulation explicitly states that upper-level organs and units are generally not allowed to second cadres from county-level and below units, a practice that was commonplace and often led to staffing shortages and increased workloads in these lower-level organizations. To ensure compliance, the policy also strictly controls secondments from city-level and above units, emphasizing that such movements must be focused on urgent work needs, with controlled numbers and necessary approvals.

A notable aspect of the new rules is the prohibition against disguising secondments under labels such as "work special teams," "shadowing studies," or "exchange training," a practice that previously circumvented restrictions and contributed to the over-secondment issue. Furthermore, the policy stipulates that secondment durations are generally limited to no more than six months, with possible extensions for a maximum of an additional six months, provided there is prior consent from the original unit and the individual.

The implications of this policy extend beyond the realm of local government staffing. By ensuring that county and grassroots-level governments retain experienced personnel, the policy aims to bolster local administrative capacity, enhance accountability, and reduce the administrative burden on these units. This could lead to improved public services, increased trust in local government, and a more predictable business environment at the local level.

Moreover, the policy's focus on preventing informal practices and closing loopholes highlights a broader effort to standardize cadre management and promote transparency in governance. This move is likely to foster a more stable, accountable, and professional local cadre system, potentially contributing to narrowing the gap in governance quality and development between urban and rural regions.

Public reaction to the policy has been largely positive, especially among those concerned with grassroots burden reduction and efficient governance. The policy is seen as a crucial step in standardizing cadre secondment work and addressing the long-standing issue of personnel shortages in townships, where cadres were technically employed but not working there.

As China continues to navigate the complexities of its vast administrative landscape, the "Regulations on Rectifying Formalism for Grassroots Burden Reduction" represent a strategic effort to streamline administrative processes, ensure that grassroots units have sufficient personnel, and prevent the misuse of secondment as a means of informal personnel allocation. The policy's emphasis on local stability, professionalism, and accountability underscores a broader commitment to enhancing the effectiveness of local governance and fostering sustainable development across all levels of Chinese society.