Since the 18th CPC National Congress in 2012, the CPC Central Committee, with Xi Jinping at its core, has developed and consistently applied an eight-point decision plan aimed at improving conduct. This initiative has strengthened Party discipline, enhanced government work practices, promoted social morality and encouraged individual virtues, significantly improving the Party's public image.

For those who may not be familiar, the "eight-point decision" refers to a set of guidelines established by the CPC leadership in December 2012 to tackle persistent bureaucratic issues, including privilege and extravagance. Though brief—just over 600 words—it provides clear standards for Party leaders regarding research tours, meetings, paperwork and other responsibilities. The decision also aims to reduce red-carpet formalities, lavish banquets and luxury perks.

Over time, it has evolved into a comprehensive, Party-wide initiative, guiding all members to adopt its principles and improve governance practices.

As a starting point for exercising complete and strict governance over the Party, these guidelines have strengthened Party purity, unity and leadership by tackling formalism, bureaucracy, hedonism and corruption; they have established a disciplined political culture marked by integrity. This stringent approach has influenced political, organizational and disciplinary efforts, resulting in a more transparent political environment.

Strict adherence to these guidelines has also transformed China's economic governance. By reducing waste, tightening public expenditures and combating corruption, it has fostered a healthier relationship between government and business, enhancing the business environment and providing momentum for sustainable growth.

Public funds have been redirected to innovation, education and healthcare. At the same time, nationwide frugality initiatives, such as the "clean plate" campaign, have accelerated the development of green and low-carbon practices. These measures have not only eliminated unhealthy practices, such as bribery and extravagant banquets, but also promoted sustainable development.

Crucially, these reforms have strengthened the Party's connection with the people. Restrictions on gift-giving, luxury travel and official banquets eased public frustration and restored trust. Privilege-seeking attitudes and behaviors were curbed, and corruption affecting people's daily lives was rectified. A 2024 survey by the National Bureau of Statistics showed that 94.9 percent of respondents approved of the rules, reflecting their strong social resonance.

Beyond governance and economics, the code of conduct has also reshaped cultural and social norms. Frugality is increasingly valued over extravagance: restaurants now promote smaller portions, wedding and funeral banquets are simpler affairs and overpriced food has become affordable again. By promoting modesty, integrity and family values, these guidelines have further strengthened mainstream morality and cultural confidence.

Over the course of a decade, the eight-point rules have revitalized officials' morale and governance capacity. Measures such as one-stop government services reduced redundant formalities, freeing primary-level officials to focus on serving the people. The result has been disciplined and capable teams, improved efficiency and a more service-oriented government.

Through this process of self-reform, the CPC has not only modernized its governance system and capacity but also demonstrated how political leadership can better serve its people, offering valuable lessons for countries facing challenges related to corruption and inefficient bureaucracy.

Central to its approach is drawing wisdom from the people through investigation and research, as evidenced in the first code of the eight point rules—improving investigation and fact-finding trips, which helps maintain the Party's vitality and adaptability.

Furthermore, by enforcing rigorous discipline and combating corruption, the CPC has strengthened cohesion and execution, turning institutional advantages into effective governance.

Above all, its sustained connections with the people remain the foundation of the CPC's long-term success, highlighting a universal principle: a political party's strength ultimately depends on its ability to remain rooted among and accountable to those it serves.