'Chinese sense of security' becomes a global buzzword

Editors note: Matteo Giovannini, a special commentator on current affairs for CGTN, is a finance professional at the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China, a non-resident associate fellow at the Center for China and Globalization, and a member of the Global Young Leaders Dialogue. The article reflects the author's views and not necessarily those of CGTN.

A new phrase has begun to circulate among foreign visitors to China, expatriates and online content creators: "Chinese sense of security."

It began as anecdotal impressions, such as safe late-night walks in major cities, seamless digital payments and visible public order, and has now gradually evolved into a broader cross-cultural concept. It reflects not only perceptions of personal safety, but also a deeper sense of predictability and stability in everyday life in a world increasingly defined by geopolitical tensions and economic volatility.

China's reputation for safety and stability is grounded in measurable outcomes. According to data released by the Ministry of Public Security, the number of criminal cases filed nationwide in 2025 fell by 12.8% year on year, reaching the lowest level in this century. Public perception of safety stood at 98.2%, maintaining a level above 98% for six consecutive years. These figures boost the broader international comparisons that consistently place China among countries with low homicide rates and relatively limited violent crime, particularly involving firearms.

However, statistics alone do not fully explain the phenomenon. This widely observed sense of safety is best understood as the product of an institutional ecosystem that integrates governance capacity, technological infrastructure and a people-centered development philosophy. Public security in China is not treated as a standalone policy domain, but as an integral component of social and economic governance. This holistic approach links safety to employment, urban management, digital services and social stability.

One of the defining features of this system is the emphasis on prevention rather than reaction. Investments in community-level governance, data-driven policing and digital monitoring systems have enhanced the state's ability to identify risks early and respond quickly.

While such measures may spark debate internationally, particularly around privacy and surveillance, they have undeniably contributed to the high levels of public safety perceived by residents and visitors alike. For many in China, the trade-off between privacy and security is viewed differently than in Western societies, with greater emphasis placed on collective stability.

Equally important is the role of economic security. Over the past decades, China's development model has prioritized poverty alleviation, infrastructure expansion and access to basic services. This has significantly reduced the socioeconomic drivers of crime that affect many other countries. Public safety is closely tied to material well-being: Stable jobs, affordable living conditions and accessible public services create an environment where social tensions are mitigated before they escalate.

This connection between development and security is particularly visible in urban China. Cities are not only safer in terms of crime rates, but also more predictable in terms of daily functioning. Public transport is reliable, digital payment systems are ubiquitous, and public spaces are efficiently managed. For foreign visitors, this translates into a frictionless experience that reinforces the perception of safety. The ability to navigate a megacity late at night, pay seamlessly with a smartphone and access services efficiently contributes to a broader sense of order and trust.

Culturally, this broader sense of safety and stability is also shaped by long-standing values emphasizing social harmony and collective responsibility. These values are reflected in both formal institutions and informal social norms. Community networks, neighborhood committees and local governance structures help maintain order and resolve disputes, complementing the work of formal law enforcement agencies. This layered approach to governance strengthens resilience at the grassroot level.

China's reputation for safety and stability carries increasing international relevance. At a time when regional conflicts and geopolitical rivalries are undermining global stability, China presents itself as a relatively predictable economic and social environment. Its commitment to high-quality development, combined with domestic stability, positions it as an anchor for global growth. For businesses and investors, this translates into a level of certainty that is increasingly valued in an unpredictable world.

At the same time, China's approach is shaped by its unique national conditions and is not intended as a one-size-fits-all solution. Like any governance model, it continues to evolve, addressing challenges such as aligning public safety with individual rights, managing the implications of new technologies and narrowing regional disparities. Experiences on the ground may vary across regions and communities, reflecting the country's scale and diversity.

The emergence of the "Chinese sense of security" as a global talking point reflects a broader shift in how the concept is understood. It is no longer limited to the absence of crime or conflict, but encompasses economic stability, social order and the reliability of everyday life. In this broader sense, China's experience offers valuable insights into how governance, development and technology can be integrated to create a comprehensive framework of security.

In an era defined by uncertainty, this model, while continuing to evolve, offers a valuable point of reference for policymakers and observers alike. Whether seen as an oasis of stability or as a distinct developmental pathway, China's approach to public safety and governance is becoming an increasingly influential part of its global narrative.

(If you want to contribute and have specific expertise, please contact us at opinions@cgtn.com. Follow @thouse_opinions on X to discover the latest commentaries in the CGTN Opinion Section.)