China's 18th Communist Party conference marks the beginning of a once-in-a-decade power shift to a new generation of leaders. During the congress, which begins on November 8th, seven out of the country's nine top leaders will step down, including president Hu Jintao and prime minister Wen Jiabao. All but two of the Politburo standing committee, the country's top political body, will step down. About two-thirds of positions in the other key leadership organs and the Central Committee will change hands. Over time, the effects will ripple through the wider party and state systems. The Guardian reports on China's leadership in transition