The Basic Models, Characteristics, and Directions of Civil Service Reform in China: Based on Analysis of the Competence of the Civil Service

Abstract

In recent years, in order to solve the high-tech needs of government departments and cut financial expenditures, the Chinese government has introduced civil service reforms and consequently created a position-rank two-track system. This paper is written from the perspective of increasing civil service competency. A review and explanation of some of China’s most pertinent current models of civil service reform such as those of Jilin, Zhuhai, and Shenzhen will be presented. Those models will also be compared with other traditional civil service systems. Specific points that will be addressed are hiring, wages and termination. The article finally points out that the fundamental future direction of civil service reform is to further rationalize the relationship between the existing civil service system and the government employee system, and then establish and regulate the criteria and procedures regarding civil service recruitment, appraisal, promotion, and exit.