Social Sciences in China (Chinese Edition)

No. 2, 2022

An Incremental Equilibrium Model of Poverty Governance: Theoretical Construction and Assessment on the Basis of Chinese Experience

(Abstract)

Zheng Yu

China’s achievements in poverty reduction have been widely recognized by the international community. However, its poverty governance is a one-dimensional policy of poverty reduction but a state-led systematic governance project with the goal of poverty eradication. China’s incremental equilibrium model of poverty governance originated in the country’s experience in development and poverty reduction. The joint effect of the three-fold mechanism of linkage, synergy, and evolution has promoted the Chinese economy’s transition from unbalanced growth to balanced development. This model has distinct Chinese characteristics also demonstrates the universal logic of economic development in developing countries. An analysis of poverty reduction practices in the three African countries of Ethiopia, Ghana, and Nigeria shows that the incremental equilibrium model provides a general analytical framework for understanding the effects of poverty governance in developing countries; demonstrates the interaction between government, society, and the market in terms of economic growth and poverty reduction; and helps to expand existing anti-poverty theories internationally. At the same time, this model also emphasizes combining knowledge of the unity and diversity of approaches to development. Sustainable poverty governance requires that developing countries practice policy in accordance with local conditions, focus on the sequencing of policy implementation, constantly reach out to more social groups who are beneficiaries and reduce social obstacles so that poverty reduction through development can become a process of self-strengthening.