Xiamen's Siming district pioneers veteran affairs reform for smart governance

In a move toward integrated urban governance, the Siming district of Xiamen in Southeast China's Fujian province has initiated a groundbreaking reform focused on veteran affairs, transforming government services from "merely functional" to "intelligently efficient".

By addressing the challenges posed by a large veteran population and complex service chains, the district adopted an innovative approach to streamlining veteran affairs, establishing a replicable model for good governance.

The reform began with an overhaul of administrative processes, integrating 13 veteran-related services into an integrated system. This eliminated the traditional fragmented approach, replacing it with a streamlined, one-stop service model. Departments now operate in parallel rather than sequentially, supported by a digital platform that facilitates data sharing and reduces redundancy.

Siming district's innovation extends beyond government offices, bringing services directly to military bases. Through the "service delivery to the barracks" initiative, the district now provides on-site legal advice, psychological counseling, and career planning, making services more accessible and engaging.

Furthermore, a hybrid online-offline service system — including the "Minzhengtong" app and self-service kiosks — ensures veterans can access services and information anytime, anywhere.

By integrating ecological concepts and modern governance principles, the reform promotes sustainable development, aligning service efficiency with ecological benefits. This comprehensive approach eases service access for veterans and sets a new standard for urban governance, with potential applications across other public service sectors in Siming district.