Achieving collaborative welfare provision for orphans: a case in Rural China

Abstract

In recent years, the scope and number of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and other charity foundations have been bourgeoning in China. While each of these organizations has its own unique agendas and target recipients, they are bounded by the common goal to improve certain human conditions for disadvantaged individuals or population groups. By using a case study methodology, and analyzing first-hand data from in-depth interviews conducted with various stakeholders, this article sheds light on some of the current barriers in implementing effective orphan care policies in rural China, and illustrate how NGOs can complement government efforts in providing adequate care for orphans. Organizational theory is used as a paradigm through which the relationship between the State and NGOs is analyzed. Implications for future child welfare development in China are discussed.