China Report

This study aimed to identify the key mechanisms through which the demographic policy of the People’s Republic of China has influenced changes in family values from 1978 to 2024. The research analysed key legal and regulatory documents that shaped the development of China’s demographic policy, statistical data on marriage and birth rate trends, as well as the results of sociological studies and demographic forecasts. The findings revealed that demographic reforms have led to the formation of a new family model in Chinese society, characterised by a predominance of nuclear households, with the average family size decreasing from 4.8 to 2.9 members. A significant shift in gender roles was identified, marked by an increase in women’s economic independence and their participation in family decision-making—82% of urban women successfully balance careers with motherhood. A new parenting paradigm has emerged, with a notable rise in the amount of time parents spend with their children (from 1.2 to 3.8 h/day) and increased investment in children’s education. The transformation of intergenerational relationships is evident in the shift from traditional elder care models, as 45% of urban families now utilise professional care services. A key aspect of this transformation has been the digitalisation of family communication, with 85% of families actively using digital technologies to maintain intergenerational connections and manage household finances. Forecasts up to 2100 suggest the continuation of these trends, with the development of new family relationship models characterised by a high degree of individualisation in life strategies while preserving core Confucian values in a modernised form.

This study examines the extent and implications of community participation in the decision-making and governance processes surrounding ecological relocation induced by the establishment of protected areas. Drawing on semi-structured interviews with government officials, community representatives and relocated residents in two counties within the planning area of the Giant Panda National Park, the research finds that the quality of participation largely hinges on the localisation of policy implementation and the representativeness of community intermediaries. Although official narratives stress the voluntary nature of relocation, China’s distinctive rural governance structure tends to amplify the authority of community representatives, often at the expense of adequately reflecting residents’ voices and concerns. While the overall effectiveness of participatory approaches remains contested, recent innovations in institutional design have opened up new avenues for community involvement in protected area governance. This study contributes to the literature by shedding light on livelihood transformations and governance dynamics in resettled communities, and identifies potential entry points for enhancing local governance and collaborative management of protected areas.

The establishment of a roadway from China to Iran through Afghanistan signifies a significant alteration in regional connectivity and trade advancement. This plan provides an economical, efficient and expedited pathway for China to get Iranian oil and export commodities via the strategically positioned Chabahar Port. The initiative corresponds with China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), demonstrating its aspirations to enhance economic connections and promote integration throughout Eurasia. This study analyses the strategic ramifications of the road project, focusing on opportunities like increased regional trade, diminished transit expenses and augmented geopolitical influence for the involved states. Nonetheless, it underscores significant hurdles, such as political instability in Afghanistan, security threats, environmental issues and competition with established commercial routes. The study utilises a mixed-methods approach, integrating geopolitical analysis, trade data assessment and stakeholder interviews for a thorough evaluation. The results highlight the imperative for strong international cooperation, security protocols and sustainable development strategies to guarantee the project’s success. This article enhances the discussion on regional connectivity by elucidating the potential effects of China’s infrastructural development on trade dynamics and power equilibrium in South and Central Asia.