Since 1978, China has undergone tremendous economic growth but lacks political reform. The government employs sophisticated controls to curb freedoms of speech and association in order to maintain its grip on power, despite citizens demanding fundamental rights protected by the constitution. The expansion of internet and social media has created opportunities for citizens to call for improved accountability and address abuses of power, laying the foundation for a rights-based reform agenda. However, the government continues to harshly repress activists, so activists in China will need continued international support from organizations like the National Endowment for Democracy as they advocate for reforms and create opportunities for democratic progress.