China is a political and economic superpower. But what do we know of the country that plays such a role in world politics? And what do the Chinese think of the rapid developments in their country? Considering all the consequences of air pollution, the rise in the ageing population and the growing discrepancy between city and countryside: What worries them? What are their ideas about progress, and which sacrifices are they willing to make for it?

In 2016, the population had increasingly more money to spend. The wealthy Chinese have a house, a car and more than plenty to eat. They discover the world during trips to Rome, Paris and Giethoorn, wishing for clean air and a good education for their children. The Communist Party keeps the population happy by making prosperity grow steadily. In Shanghai and other parts, you can feel the optimism. But at the same time, inequality is rising. The Dutch China correspondent Eefje Rammeloo visits the Chinese in their homes and talks with them about their worries and dreams for the future.