, Columnist
Brexit Is the Sum of China's Fears
The U.K.'s decision will lead the Communist Party to double down on the status quo.
A happier time.
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In voting to leave the European Union, the U.K. has confirmed many of the Chinese Communist Party's worst fears about democracy. Now the question is whether Brexit will also impede its attempts at economic reform.
At least one major target of "Leave" campaigners in the U.K. -- an unaccountable bureaucracy in Brussels, enjoying the fruits of power -- will certainly resonate with Chinese citizens. Despite a recent corruption crackdown, dissatisfaction with officials is simmering in many parts of China -- over land grabs, unpaid wages, layoffs and more. For the Communist Party, a popular rejection of distant bureaucrats isn't to be taken lightly.