Transnational Ties, HIV/AIDS Prevention and State-Minority Relations in Sipsongpanna, Southwest China

Abstract

This paper depicts the transnational ethnic and religious ties between China and Southeast Asia and examines the cultural, political and economic implications for state-minority relations in Southwest China. It documents how transnational ethnic and religious ties facilitate cultural reviva l among the ethnic Dai people in Southwest China and examines the impact of Buddhist networks on local governance. In particular, it portrays the cooperative relationship between the Chinese state and the Buddhist Sangha on social issues such as HIV/AIDS prevention and care. The paper argues that the Chinese state is more willing to cooperate with transnational ethnic and religious groups when the latter can help improve local governance and generate economic development, under the condition that they do not challenge the state's ultimate legitimacy and authority. © 2013 Copyright Taylor and Francis Group, LLC.