Evolving population distribution in China's border regions: Spatial differences, driving forces and policy...

Area of Science:

• Demography
• Socioeconomics
• Geospatial analysis

Background:

• China's border regions are crucial for national security and socioeconomic development.
• Understanding population dynamics in these areas is vital for policy-making.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze population distribution and dynamics in China's border counties from 1982 to 2010.
• To identify key factors influencing population changes in these strategic regions.

Main Methods:

• Utilized census, statistical, digital elevation model (DEM), and network data.
• Employed visual analysis for population patterns and stepwise regression for factor identification.

Main Results:

• Identified population concentration in northeast, northwest, and Guangxi-Yunnan border areas.
• Observed rapid population growth in western Inner Mongolia, southwest Xinjiang, northwest Tibet, and southern Yunnan.
• Found national reclamation policies less effective for population attraction in the new century.
• Determined education significantly reduces fertility rates in remote border areas.
• Highlighted regional heterogeneity in factors influencing population growth.

Conclusions:

• Population distribution and growth in China's border regions exhibit significant spatial variation.
• Socioeconomic factors, particularly education, play a crucial role in shaping population dynamics.
• Policy effectiveness in border regions is evolving with market-oriented migration mechanisms.