War on poverty needs to adapt

China is at a critical stage as it strives to eradicate extreme poverty by 2020 as part of the central government’s goal to build an all-round well-off society in which no one is left behind. Remarkable progress has already been made.

Over the past three decades 700-million people have been lifted out of poverty.

But as Communist Party of China central committee general secretary Xi Jinping pointed out during a meeting on poverty alleviation work, it is now “a daunting task”, one that is becoming more difficult as it nears the end. Although a further 10-million people were lifted out of poverty in 2016, there are still more than 60-million living below the official poverty line.

However, the ways that proved effective in lifting people out of poverty in the past, such as focusing on local economic growth with massive policy and capital support, are now no longer as effective. A new way of thinking is imperative because the one-size-fits-all model has ceased to work.

The idea, initiated by Xi himself, is to make sure targeted antipoverty projects, capital and other resources that are suited to the local situation directly benefit those who are really in need, with verifiable results. To this end, some people living in remote impoverished regions will be relocated, health and education policies will be implemented to help poor families and there will be greater fiscal support.

Yet grass-roots corruption could compromise such best-intentioned efforts if it goes unchecked. According to the party’s disciplinary watchdog, violations often include appropriation and embezzlement of antipoverty funds through cheating or fabrication of beneficiaries.

The highest assessment standards should also be applied to evaluate the success of poverty relief work in a bid to determine how useful they are and prevent any fraudulent practices. Beijing, February 24.