Speaker
Description
The digitalisation of rural areas in China provides an invaluable opportunity to redefine spatial development and rethink the concept of proximity. The expansion of the digital economy has significantly reshaped global spatial networks, redefining rurality and fostering what is often referred to as “globalised rurality.” Historically, globalisation has been driven by the accelerated flow of capital, goods, and knowledge, predominantly concentrated in urban centres, marginalising rural areas. However, the proliferation of digital technologies, including widespread internet access and smartphone adoption, has reached even remote rural regions, integrating them into global networks and disrupting traditional spatial isolation.
This study focuses on Bainiu village in Anji County, Zhejiang Province, to identify the key drivers behind digital rural development. It examines the spatial phenomena and the impacts on proximity resulting from the establishment of digital networks that transcend physical boundaries. The research employs a three-phase methodology: constructing a chronological timeline, analysing stakeholders, and mapping interactions. These are complemented by a spatial analysis of the village’s development patterns to elucidate how digitalisation has transformed its morphology and organisation. Interviews and participatory observations with the local community further enrich the framework with experiential insights.
Findings reveal that the integration of digital networks has profoundly reshaped the spatial and relational dynamics of Bainiu village. Exogenous connections established through digital platforms have directly influenced endogenous processes, fostering new forms of social and economic cohesion. Specifically, the digital infrastructure has facilitated enhanced access to markets, services, and knowledge, leading to tangible improvements in local livelihoods and spatial organisation. This research underscores the importance of studying digital villages as a critical theme in rural development dynamics. The Chinese model demonstrates a viable pathway to integrate remote and underdeveloped areas into global networks, offering a blueprint for reinterpreting the role of rural spaces in the digital era.
| Keywords | Digitalisation of rural areas, Globalised rurality, Proximity and digital networks |
|---|---|
| Best Congress Paper Award | Yes |
