Emotional Integration, Governance Capacity, and Poverty Alleviation in Relocated Communities: A Case Study of Relocated Migrants in China

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals emphasize poverty alleviation as a critical global objective. Migration, driven by factors such as poverty, climate change, urban expansion, and developmental agendas, has led to population displacements and resettlements worldwide. China’s unique approach to poverty alleviation through resettlement, exemplified by the Migrant Poverty Alleviation Relocation Resettlement (MPARR) campaign, is a paradigm shift that seeks to break the cycle of intergenerational poverty transmission. While this approach has been successful in eradicating rural poverty, there is a paucity of research addressing the emotional integration of relocated migrants, especially ethnic minorities. This research focuses on the emotional challenges faced by relocated migrants and their impact on governance capacity within resettlement communities. Using the Yi people in Liangshan, Sichuan, as a case study, the study assesses the factors influencing migrants’ sense of belonging and identity post-relocation. It employs a regression model to evaluate community governance capacity and a comprehensive questionnaire to analyze critical factors. The study reveals complex relationships between poverty, migration, and governance, emphasizing the importance of emotional integration in migration strategies. It underscores the need to nurture a sense of belonging and well-being among relocated populations and calls for tailored initiatives that prioritize emotional well-being, social adaptation, and psychological welfare. Additionally, the research highlights the need for a balanced evaluation framework that includes a diverse set of variables to comprehensively assess governance capacity. This study contributes to the knowledge economy by recognizing the interconnectedness between knowledge dynamics and individual welfare in the context of migration. It offers theoretical insights into governance capacity within relocated communities and provides practical recommendations for policymakers and community leaders to enhance the effectiveness of poverty alleviation programs in resettlement areas.