A week-long Guardian series offering a unique portrait of modern China - its politics, economy, society, environment and international relations - through the eyes of migrant workers, business people, bloggers and officials. We follow them from the factories of Shenzhen to the deserts of Gansu, and explore their views on everything from modern marriage to patriotic pride. We learn about their hopes and fears, and hear from some of the country’s foremost commentators on issues ranging from economic reform to environmental protection
Zhang Wen: China at the crossroads: Democracy and freedom are not the preserve of the west – the Chinese are becoming better informed and change is possible