The launch for "Women in China's New Era" at Southwest University of Political Science and Law (SWUPL) in Chongqing, Dec. 10, 2025. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]

The Chinese and English editions of a new book, "Women in China's New Era," were released at Southwest University of Political Science and Law (SWUPL) in Chongqing on Dec. 10, offering 30 real-life stories that spotlight the diverse achievements of Chinese women in the new era. 

The launch coincided with the announcement of the 2025 Li Buyun Law Prize, awarded to the book's editor-in-chief, Zhang Yonghe, executive director of the Human Rights Institute at SWUPL. Zhang received the prize for his contributions to shaping the theoretical framework of human rights with Chinese characteristics and advancing law-based practice.

The new volume features women from across China and highlights their roles in fields ranging from digital technology, aerospace engineering, ecological conservation and public security to political participation, traditional arts, e-commerce and food production. Though many of the book's protagonists are not widely known, each chapter offers an authentic portrait of perseverance, innovation and social contribution.

"These real stories carry great persuasive power, and concrete expressions of human rights resonate most strongly with people," said Zhou Shangjun, vice president of SWUPL. "Every story in the book is a microcosm of how women's rights in China are continuously realized through legal protections, policy support and social participation."

Zhou added that the simultaneous release of both Chinese and English editions further opens a window for the world to observe the lived experiences of Chinese women. "Sharing these stories internationally is a way for China to participate in global human rights dialogue and the broader cause of gender equality," he said.

Liang Ying, president of the Central Compilation and Translation Press, said the idea for the book emerged from a keen understanding of the pulse of the times. "On the new journey of Chinese modernization, we have seen remarkable women emerging across all sectors. Through their resilience and pioneering spirit, they are writing extraordinary chapters in their respective fields," Liang said. "Together, their journeys sketch a powerful portrait of women's development in contemporary China."

Reflecting on the book's creation, Zhang Yonghe said that the women featured, though often coming from ordinary backgrounds, embody extraordinary strength and deserve to be recognized. "Their names may not be widely known, and their roles may seem modest, but their stories are worth telling and their strength should be seen," he said.

International scholars also welcomed the book's publication. Krisztina Karsai, law professor at the University of Szeged, said that the work presents women's stories within a human rights framework. "This volume not only amplifies underrepresented voices," she said, "but also reaffirms Zhang's belief that human rights must be understood through the lens of lived experience, not merely as legal abstractions but as personal and social realities."

The book launch was held on Human Rights Day, underscoring China's ongoing efforts in human rights development and gender equality as the country continues to expand international dialogue in these fields.