China is the world’s second-largest economy and has made significant progress in poverty alleviation since its reform and opening up. However, many disadvantaged groups in remote rural areas still need support and assistance. The National Bureau of Statistics’ 2023 report states that the monthly median disposable income per capita for urban residents is 3,926 yuan, compared to 1,562 yuan for rural residents, highlighting a gap of over 2.5 times. Additionally, China’s Gini coefficient was 0.467 in 2022 , much higher than the Asia-Pacific average of 0.35, indicating a serious wealth disparity.
Since 1995, Plan International has been working in Mainland China to address the issues faced by disadvantaged children in their rights to survive and develop. For example, “left-behind children” in rural areas face significant challenges due to the absence of their parents. They are more likely to become targets of criminal activities because of the lack of parental companionship and care. Additionally, the long-term absence of their parents leads to feelings of emptiness and loneliness, affecting their personal growth and development. In school, they may also experience a decline in academic performance and exhibit behavioural deviations, or even become targets of bullying, suffering both physical and psychological harm. In light of this, Plan International is committed to supporting children and the youth overcome their life challenges through carrying out various programmes to safeguard their well-being.
Currently, our works focus on Shaanxi, Yunnan, Anhui, Sichuan, Hunan, Beijing, and Jiangxi. Since 1995 to June 2024, Plan International has invested a total of 920 million yuan domestically, benefitting 663,345 females and males directly and indirectly, including improving the lives and development of 173,158 girls and 195,138 women in 305 communities. However, gender inequality and gender stereotyping issues remain deeply rooted and we need to continue to improve the lives and development of girls and young women, ensuring that girls can Learn, Lead, Decide, and Thrive, thereby advancing girls’ rights and achieving gender equality.
Can bring changes to the communities:
Nana, a fifth grader, used to be pushed around with hostility by her classmates but didn’t know how to report it to her teacher. Through Plan International’s child protection program, Nana has gained knowledge in coping with bullying, “I need to bravely stand up and say ‘no,’ to bullying. I also learned to seek help from teachers and parents promptly. Now, I know how to protect myself and avoid becoming a target of bullies.”
Xiaoyu, a fourth grader, loves reading but was unable to buy books due to poverty. Plan International has collaborated with local partners in launching reading club activities and setting up reading corners in each classroom, greatly benefiting Xiaoyu, “Children here have few opportunities to explore the outside world. Now, I can expand my horizons and gain rich knowledge through different kinds of books.”