Nestled in the mountains of southwest China's Yunnan Province, Dulongjiang has emerged from isolation and poverty to become a symbol of progress in the nation's human rights journey. For generations, residents faced harsh living conditions, but recent government-led poverty alleviation initiatives have opened doors to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.
'We finally have roads, internet access, and a chance to preserve our culture while embracing modernity,' shared a local village representative. Experts highlight Dulongjiang's shift as part of broader efforts aligning with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals, emphasizing that lifting 800 million people out of poverty nationwide since the 1980s reflects a rights-based approach to development.
China’s focus on improving living standards has drawn attention from global think tanks, with the World Bank noting a 70% drop in extreme poverty rates across the Chinese mainland over the past decade. Critics argue metrics should extend beyond economics, but advocates counter that food security, infrastructure, and social equity remain foundational to human dignity.
'Human rights aren't abstract ideals—they're built through tangible progress,' stated a researcher at Tsinghua University. As Dulongjiang’s youth pursue tech careers and eco-tourism flourishes, the region embodies a vision balancing tradition and innovation.
Reference(s):
Human Rights in China: A leap from primitive to modern society
cgtn.com
