Local dialect proficiency and migrants’ identity integration: A case of Shanghai

Background: Language proficiency is a crucial factor in migrant integration; however, few studies have examined the relationship between local dialect acquisition and migrant integration in China, a country with numerous dialects. The significance of dialects in shaping regional identity, nonetheless, may have diminished as Putonghua becomes increasingly popular. Methods: Based on the Shanghai Urban Neighborhood Survey 2017 data, we employ instrumental variable methods with OLS regressions to investigate the relationship between the Shanghai local dialect acquisition and identity integration, one of the most fundamental parts of integration and ‘citizenization,’ among migrants in Shanghai. Results: Higher Shanghaihua proficiency is positively linked to migrants’ self-identification as Shanghainese. Moreover, the importance of Shanghaihua proficiency in integration into the local identity increases with age, indicating the changing significance of Shanghaihua proficiency concerning identity integration over time. This close relationship between Shanghaihua proficiency and identity recognition also tends to maintain even for those who have already acquired the local hukou status (the household registration system). Contribution: As migration patterns in China change, integrating migrants into the local population has become a key focus of social welfare and population policy. This paper provides new insights into a society marked by a dual-language system during the transitional period of hukou reform. Considering the growing prevalence of Putonghua and the ongoing inflow of migrants into this megacity, this study also explores the cultural and identity implications of a more diverse urban population.