Stuck between the idea of philanthropy and social right: Dilemma of social assistance in China

This article critically examines China’s social assistance system, which is caught between a charity-based philanthropic approach and a rights-based welfare framework. Based on a qualitative study involving social assistance recipients and policy implementers, it argues that the social right to receive assistance has not been fully established due to the persistent influence of philanthropy. This ideological tension creates a dilemma in the design of state welfare, impacting poverty alleviation efforts and the fundamental relationship between citizens and the state. The findings suggest implications for policy and practice reforms to move towards a rights-based system.