The Reshaping of Neighboring Social Networks after Poverty Alleviation Relocation in Rural China: A Two-Year Observation

Abstract

As one of China’s key poverty-reduction initiatives, poverty alleviation relocation (PAR) unavoidably results in the reshaping of neighboring social networks. This study equally focused on the changes in the scope of social interaction and in the intergroup social support of the two primary stakeholders of PAR in a rural–rural relocation context: the migrant and local groups. In 2019 and 2021, two surveys were conducted in four different types of resettlements: centralized, adjacent, enclave, and infill. To provide decision makers with broad references for sustainable PAR planning, the social changes were compared by groups, types, and years. In general, the migrant group had more significant scope expansion or narrowing in social interaction than the local group, and they were more willing to seek intergroup social support. Specifically, the centralized type was the superior choice since it was well-expanded and group-balanced; the adjacent type was also a good choice in the long term because of its rapid improvement in the later phase; the enclave type should be a last resort because of its persistently negative impact; and the infill type was a good option in the short term, as it rarely improved in the later stage. Furthermore, the personal socioeconomic attributes associated with the above social changes, claims laid to the spaces, and economic benefits and limitations were explored for a more comprehensive understanding.