A Study of Multidimensional and Persistent Poverty among Migrant Workers: Evidence from China’s CFPS 2014–2020

Abstract

Poverty is a critical social problem in numerous countries. It is a result of many aspects and has been addressed worldwide for a long time. In this study, we construct the multidimensional poverty index (MPI) for migrant workers in China based on Amartya Sen’s capabilities approach. Using the Chinese Family Panel Studies (CFPS) data during 2014–2020 and the Alkire–Foster methodology, our study examines the multidimensional poverty of migrant workers using static to dynamic analyses. The results show the following: (1) The multidimensional poverty of migrant workers shows a general decreasing trend over time. (2) Over one third of migrant workers are in severe multidimensional poverty. (3) The in-work poverty of migrant workers is serious, which is reflected in the indicators of employment security, housing provident fund, labor contract, and labor union. (4) Approximately 30% of migrant workers’ multidimensional poverty is persistent. It is difficult for them to rid themselves of persistent poverty by their own effort. This study suggests that the government should pay more attention to poverty reduction and capability improvement for migrant workers.