China’s recent creation of National Defence Mobilisation Offices (NDMO) and revisions to its Reserve Personnel Law have been strongly influenced by the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. These changes demonstrate China’s efforts to strengthen its military and civilian mobilisation capabilities in the event of a border escalation.
China’s NDMOs:
Formation and Functions Starting from December 2022, China has been establishing NDMOs in various cities and smaller villages, including Beijing, Shanghai, Shandong, Fujian, Wuhan, Hunan, Sichuan, Tibet, Inner Mongolia, Hubei, Xinjiang, among others. These offices are primarily managed by China’s National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC).
The NDMOs have multiple functions related to mobilisation. They handle economic mobilisation, civil air defence mobilisation, traffic readiness during mobilisation, equipment mobilisation, technology mobilisation and planning, and organizing and implementing mobilisation processes at the local level. Additionally, these offices are responsible for the recruitment of militia and reserve force personnel in their respective regions.
Power Shift and Local Government Involvement:
The recent changes indicate a shift in power from the military region-level defence mobilisation committees (now theatre command level) to the NDMOs at the local level. While the central command retains ultimate authority, local governments are entrusted with the task of mobilizing militias and reserve forces.
The New Reserve Personnel Law:
To complement these reforms, China implemented the new Reserve Personnel Law on March 1, 2023. This law, passed at the National People’s Congress in December of the previous year, establishes a legal and regulatory system for reserve personnel.
The connection between the NDMOs and the Reserve Personnel Law lies in their shared purpose: to strengthen China’s military and civilian mobilisation capabilities in border escalation scenarios. By recruiting and training militias and reserve personnel at the local level, China aims to develop region-specific and contingency-specific forces.
Lessons from the Russia-Ukraine War Undoubtedly, the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine has played a significant role in driving these changes in China. The valuable insights gained from this conflict have compelled China to reevaluate and enhance its military and civilian mobilisation strategies.
China is keen on avoiding any vulnerabilities that could potentially arise during border disputes or escalations. By observing the Russia-Ukraine War, China has identified the importance of having a robust and efficient mobilisation system that can quickly respond to emerging threats.
The reforms implemented by China reflect its proactive approach in adapting to evolving geopolitical situations and enhancing its national security. These changes also highlight China’s intention to build a more resilient and capable military and civilian force, ready to protect its territorial integrity and respond to potential challenges.
