The transition of power in China to a new generation of leaders is now underway with the start of the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party. Xi Jinping and Li Keqiang are expected to succeed Hu Jintao and Wen Jiabao as President/General Secretary and Premier respectively. Will the new leaders alter Beijing's policies or attitudes, or will the emphasis remain on economic growth? A selection of Chatham House resources on China look ahead.

Expert Comments

New Approaches Needed
Tim Summers
China's leadership transition has demonstrated a strong degree of stability in elite politics. But innovation as well as cohesiveness will be needed to deal with the challenges facing China. Read.

Continuity and Change
Shaun Breslin
With powerful voices from the past continuing to have a say over the direction of policy, and with political and economic reform opposed by key interests, we should not expect too much of Xi Jinping just yet. Read.

The Past 10 Years, A Missed Opportunity?
Rod Wye
The past ten years may yet come to be seen as a wasted opportunity where China failed to capitalize on its economic success and implement reform. If China's leaders remain cautious, tackling the problems will become harder. Read 

Timetable

Further Resources

China's New Leadership: Approaches to International Affairs
Tim Summers, Briefing Paper, April 2013 

China's New Leadership: Approaches to International Affairs
Meeting Summary, March 2013

China's Rulers: The Fifth Generation Takes Power (2012–13) 
Michael Dillon, ECRAN Paper, October 2012  

Europe Loses its Chinese Cheerleader
Kerry Brown, The World Today, October 2012

China: The Next Great Leap
Kerry Brown, The World Today, March 2012