Key facts
- China's anti-corruption campaign is led by Xi Jinping.
- Millions of party members and officials have been disciplined.
- The number of punishments has doubled over a decade.
- Recent revisions have expanded the scope of disciplinary violations.
- The party has increased discretion and control over its members.
The anti-corruption campaign initiated by Xi Jinping in China has resulted in the discipline of millions of Communist Party members and officials. Over the course of a decade, the number of individuals subjected to disciplinary actions has doubled. Recent updates to the party's disciplinary codes have significantly expanded the definition of violations. This expansion grants the party greater discretion and control over its members, allowing for a wider range of conduct to be deemed punishable. The campaign is seen as a key tool for Xi Jinping to consolidate his authority and ensure loyalty within the party structure. The increased scope of violations means that more actions can be scrutinized and penalized, reinforcing the party's pervasive influence over its membership. This has led to a climate where adherence to party directives and Xi's directives is paramount, with disciplinary measures serving as a strong deterrent against dissent or deviation from the party line.