China after Xi: Pathways to succession under one-man rule

China's most powerful leader in generations, Xi Jinping, has cleared the field of all potential rivals and exerts unrivalled authority with no heir in sight. 

The uncertainty over his succession plans is a mystery by design, one that helps him to maintain control and buy time to assess potential heirs. But keeping the suspense for too long could backfire, alienating protégés and antagonizing enemies, even potentially setting off a succession crisis that unleashes shock waves globally. By looking back at how the Communist Party and its past leaders have handled succession, observers can better understand what Xi might do if and when he decides to step away.

Recording

Play video

About the speaker

Chun Han Wong covers Chinese politics and foreign policy for The Wall Street Journal. As a China-focused reporter for the Journal since 2014, he has written widely on subjects spanning elite politics, Communist Party doctrine, human and labour rights, as well as defence and diplomatic affairs. Wong was part of a team of Journal reporters named as Pulitzer Prize finalists in 2021 for their coverage of China’s autocratic turn under Xi Jinping. 

Born and raised in Singapore, he studied International History at the London School of Economics and graduated with first-class honours.

Chair: Professor Steve Tsang, Director, SOAS China Institute

Registration

This webinar will take place online via Zoom. All are welcome, but registration is required.

Organiser

• SOAS China Institute

Contact

• Email: sci@soas.ac.uk