The Rights Practice is deeply saddened by the death of its long-standing partner and friend Professor Cai Dingjian. A graduate of China University of Politics and Law and Peking University, Cai worked for many years at the National People’s Congress before returning to university life to research and engage with constitutional issues. Professor Cai was a political reform pioneer in China and established the Constitutionalism Research Institute at China University of Politics and Law. Facing difficulties in promoting electoral democracy, he became an enthusiastic advocate of greater public participation in decision making. He was indefatigable in his desire to understand the theory and mechanics of public participation around the world and wanted to make these processes realizable for his fellow citizens. He was a rare outspoken advocate for stronger democratic processes and realistic about what could be achieved in China; he argued for mandatory public consultations in urban planning, supported some of the first legislative hearings and piloted participatory budgeting. At a conference last month, co-sponsored by The Rights Practice, Cai made a passionate case for ensuring that those affected by compulsory purchase decisions have a voice in the decision making process and renewed his call for revisions to the legislation on evictions and demolitions. Professor Cai and his reformer spirit will be sorely missed by all those who are working to support the protection of human rights and greater accountability in China and by those who have benefitted from his unyielding advocacy and sense of duty to make his country a better place.

Our work with Professor Cai Dingjian
Programme: Public Participation in Decision Making

Conference: Public Participation in Decision Making, July 2009

Conference: Revising the legislation: Urban demolition and Eviction, October 2010

You can donate to The Rights Practice Cai Dingjian Fellowship here. Or click here to request further information on this initiative.