When the Communist Party of China (CPC) unveiled its Eight-Point Decision on Improving Party and Government Conduct on 4 December 2012—just weeks after the 18th CPC National Congress—many observers saw it as a modest tweak to official behaviour.More than a decade later, it has become a symbol of integrity, a model of leadership and a cornerstone of the nation’s progress. Under the strong leadership of CPC General Secretary and President Xi Jinping, the decision has reshaped the conduct of Party and government officials and inspired profound transformations in Chinese society, the economy, culture and governance. It shows that small, precise measures—backed by determination—can trigger historic change.At its heart, the Eight-Point Decision is about discipline and reconnecting with the people. By insisting on frugality, simpler meetings, fewer empty speeches and genuine grassroots research, it has broken down barriers between the leadership and ordinary citizens. Xi has led by example, staying in modest guesthouses, sharing simple meals of “four dishes and one soup,” and walking among the people without pomp or extravagance. These gestures embody a principle: those who lead must do so with humility, clarity and an unwavering sense of duty to the people.The results have been remarkable. Extravagant banquets, wasteful ceremonies and hollow documents have given way to a culture of efficiency and responsibility. Public funds once squandered on luxury are now channelled into national development. The decision has dismantled unhealthy ties between officials and business interests, ensuring that resources serve the public good rather than private enrichment. In turn, this has created a fairer, more vibrant economic environment, fuelling high-quality growth and strengthening the momentum of Chinese modernisation.Socially, the Eight-Point Decision has touched lives across the country. It has removed obstacles between the Party and the citizens, earning heartfelt trust and support. When Xi visits villages, shares meals with farmers or brings gifts to families during New Year, it is not simply kindness. It is the Party fulfilling its pledge to serve the people wholeheartedly, to stay rooted in the soil of the nation and to ensure no distance grows between leaders and those they represent. This closeness has become a source of unity, stability and confidence for the whole country.Culturally, the campaign has swept away outdated formalism and resisted harmful outside influences. It has set new standards of public morality and work ethic, reminding officials and citizens alike that integrity, modesty and diligence are the hallmarks of a great civilisation. By setting these examples, the Party has not only purified its own conduct but also inspired a renaissance of social values aligned with the spirit of the Chinese nation.In governance, the Eight-Point Decision has proven to be a decisive turning point—the “small incision” that triggered a major transformation in how the CPC governs itself and the country. Through strict discipline, tireless anti-corruption campaigns and continuous self-renewal, the CPC has shown its ability to lead with both strength and honesty. It has made clear that corruption will not be tolerated, bureaucracy will be broken down and those entrusted with power must remember they are servants of the people.The statistics speak loudly. In 2024 alone, over 225,000 violations of the Eight-Point Decision were investigated—proof that enforcement is real and relentless. Behind each case lies a lesson and a safeguard ensuring the Party remains pure, united and ready to meet future challenges. This persistence is why the campaign has endured and continues to deliver results every year.The Eight-Point Decision has become more than a rulebook. It is a spirit, a culture and a promise. It underpinned the Party’s historic achievement of building a moderately prosperous society and now serves as a strong guarantee as China strides confidently toward the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation. It has strengthened the Party’s bond with the people, fortified its capacity to govern and injected vitality into every aspect of national development.Xi Jinping once described the resolve to implement the decision as being like “leaving footprints on stone and grasping iron with marks.” That is exactly what has happened. The Party has left a deep and lasting imprint on the country’s political life—one that cannot be erased. The Eight-Point Decision is now part of the DNA of Chinese governance.As China advances its modernisation with Chinese characteristics, the Eight-Point Decision shines as a beacon of discipline, service and unity. It shows the world that a great nation is not built on grandeur or empty spectacle, but on modesty, diligence and a genuine bond between leaders and the people. With this guiding light, the CPC and the Chinese people are walking firmly together on the road to national strength, prosperity and rejuvenation.