China Rises to Number 85 in Human Development Stakes

China’s 2005 human development index has risen to 85 among the world’s 177 nations and regions, according to the 2005 UN Development Program China Human Development Report. China has jumped 20 places since 1990 -- the most rapid progress ever by any nation. This leap is attributable to increased level of its citizens’ disposable income.

Since 1990, the annual UN Development Program human development report has included a human development index, compiled according to the three main criteria of the expected life span, levels of education of a nation’s citizens and its economic prowess.

The report confronts the problems restricting human development in China, and offers relevant solutions. One suggestion is that the government formulate policies highlighting the importance of ten issues vital for human growth. They are: employment and creating more jobs; encouraging investment in rural infrastructure; bringing about greater financial input for education; enhancing public health and basic medicare; building a sound social security system; eliminating social discrimination; perfecting the legal system and establishing the rule of law; reforming financial and taxation systems to ensure just distribution; and further transforming thel role of the government to suit the development of the market economy.