Economic reform, social change, and illegal Chinese emigrants

Abstract

Focusing on current human smuggling operations in China, this article analyzes and attempts to explain the background of illegal Chinese emigrant activities. It argues that, contrary to the common representation of these illegal emigrants as hopeless, destitute people who have no choice but to flee from their country, in truth many are young people driven by restlessness and ambition, from various social origins. Recent political, economic, and social reforms within China provide those dreaming of a better life in foreign countries the opportunity to leave.