Mobilizing cadre incentives in policy implementation: Poverty alleviation in a Chinese county

Abstract

This article discusses the ways in which the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) mobilizes local governments to implement policies set by higher-level governments. Using the concept of ‘institutionalized mobilization’, we discuss poverty alleviation in H county. We identify three key mechanisms: the cross-system leading group, cross-level personnel/financial management, and pairing-up. These mechanisms involve both the adjustment of tiao tiao (条条) and kuai kuai (块块) relationships within the bureaucracy and the strengthening of state–society relations. We also point out the many problems resulting from this mode of institutionalized mobilization. Finally, we compare the political and geographical conditions in H county with those in two other counties – E and K – to ascertain whether the results of poverty alleviation are sustainable.