Behind China’s Military Parades, Soldiers Face Corruption and Uncertain Futures
Interviews with service members reveal how economic pressures, broken promises, and political control are straining morale within the Chinese military.
Officers are seen in the hatch of a Type 99 main battle tank as it roll during a military parade marking the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, in Tiananmen Square, Beijing, on Sept. 3, 2025. Pedro Pardo/AFP via Getty Images
When the Chinese military marched through Beijing in September to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, the spectacle appeared to project discipline, power, and loyalty—core images that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) seeks to associate with its armed forces.
Michael Zhuang
Author
Michael Zhuang is a contributor to The Epoch Times with a focus on China-related topics.
