Changing Demands, Emerging Providers: New Directions in Social Policy in China

China is experiencing dual demographic shifts—high levels of internal migration combined with a rapidly aging population—which are weakening traditional family-based social support systems. To meet the growing demand for social services, community-based approaches to service delivery led by social organizations have emerged. This case study, part of the UNRISD project New Directions in Social Policy: Alternatives from and for the Global South, investigates China’s new approach to social service delivery, with a focus on its governance and outcomes.

UNRISD Project Briefs pose questions, flag ideas and contribute knowledge that can improve the quality of development debates, policy and practice. They provide a concise summary of an UNRISD research project, situating it within wider social development debates; outlining its focus, objectives and methodology; and highlighting interim findings.