Most Development in Rural China Done Illegally

Peasants losing their means of living while government is getting kickbacks.

1 minute read

March 12, 2004, 10:00 AM PST

It is estimated that 80% of the farmland that has been turned into development zones in China has been acquired illegally. Resulting land disputes have pitted poor peasants with no ownership rights against violent local governments that are responding with arrests and retaliation. "Local officials lease the land to developers at high prices and use the windfall on ambitious construction projects that help them build reputations and gain promotions." The central government, mindful of history, is now attempting to exert direct control on land use.

Thanks to Ratna Amin

FULL STORY: Land Grabs Sow Pain, Poverty for Chinese Farmers

Sunday, March 7, 2004 in The Los Angeles Times

Community / Economic Development United States

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Cover CM Credits, Earn Certificates, Push Your Career Forward

Learn More

Advertise with us

Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools

This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.