In a recent interview with NPR, author and Labour Party candidate Yuan Yang shared her insights into the challenges faced by women in her former home country of China. Yang, who is running as a candidate in the upcoming U.K. election, brings a unique perspective to the table, having experienced both democratic and undemocratic societies.

Born in China, Yang moved to Britain at the age of 4 with her family. As a journalist, she worked for the Financial Times, reporting on the political and social landscape in both the U.K. and China. The stark contrast between the democratic freedoms she enjoyed in the West and the increasing authoritarianism she witnessed in China has motivated her to fight for a renewal of British democracy.

Yang's upcoming book, "Private Revolutions," which is set to be released on July 2, tells the stories of four women she encountered during her time in China. These women, all born around 1990, navigated their way through a changing China as it underwent rapid economic growth. However, they also had to contend with the tightening of surveillance, restrictions on speech, and a slowdown in the economy.

The book explores the impact of these changes on their relationships, aspirations, and personal growth. It delves into the struggles and resilience of these women, who defied societal expectations and pursued their ambitions in the face of adversity. Yang emphasizes the optimism and ambition inherent in China's millennial generation, underscored by the societal belief that each generation should surpass the previous one.

However, as the economic growth slowed down, these aspirations clashed with the harsh realities of limited opportunities. Yang highlights the adjustment and introspection that followed, as individuals grappled with unfulfilled expectations and redefined their dreams.

Through her book and her political career, Yang aims to shed light on the challenges faced by women in China and raise awareness of the importance of democratic values. She emphasizes the stark differences between the free society she enjoys in the U.K. and the restrictive environment that many activists and journalists face in China.

As she campaigns for a seat in Parliament, Yang's optimistic outlook is fueled by her firsthand experience of the impact of authoritarianism and the erosion of freedoms. Her belief in a renewed British democracy is driven by the juxtaposition of her experiences in both countries.

Yuan Yang's candidacy and her book serve as a reminder of the importance of protecting and cherishing democratic values, as well as understanding the struggles that individuals face in societies with limited freedoms. Her unique perspective adds depth to the ongoing discussions on global politics and the challenges confronting societies worldwide.