The Adjudication Committee of the Supreme People's Court (SPC) convened a meeting on March 25 to review progress on judicial recommendations for comprehensive governance and to discuss key topics for 2025. The meeting emphasized the importance of strengthening communication and coordination, ensuring effective implementation, and enhancing legal governance through targeted judicial recommendations.

Zhang Jun, president of the SPC, presided over the meeting.

Over the past year, courts across China have actively worked with relevant departments to issue judicial recommendations in response to pressing public concerns, such as disputes over betrothal gifts, prepaid consumer services, and simplified business deregistration. Some judicial recommendations have been incorporated into local legislation, policy documents and multi-agency discussions, contributing to a noticeable reduction in related disputes.

During the meeting, participants underscored the importance of identifying recurring legal issues through case analysis, data reviews and on-the-ground investigations. They stressed the need for close collaboration with relevant authorities to develop targeted and practical judicial recommendations. The discussion also highlighted the significance of follow-up efforts to ensure implementation, assess impact and refine recommendations as necessary.

Key topics suggested for this year’s judicial recommendations include strengthening enforcement efficiency, safeguarding minors' rights and interests and enhancing businesses' ability to navigate legal processes.

Meeting participants reiterated that courts should prioritize quality over quantity when issuing judicial recommendations, with a focus on implementation and long-term impact. Courts at various levels were encouraged to tailor recommendations to real-world judicial practices and effectively collaborate with relevant parties for better governance.

The meeting also emphasized that, while the SPC and provincial-level high courts should take on greater responsibility in issuing judicial recommendations, courts at lower levels need to concentrate more on effective implementation. To alleviate burdens on grassroots courts, they will not be required or assessed based on the issuance of comprehensive governance-related judicial recommendations, facilitating more effective implementation.

Leading officials of the SPC, members of the Adjudication Committee, and representatives from relevant departments also attended the meeting.