ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the linkages between civil society, social justice, and marginalisation. In keeping with the central aims of this book, it looks behind the ‘China development miracle’ to the people and places that have become marginalised rather than emancipated as a consequence of China’s modernisation drive. In taking a historically informed perspective, I suggest that marginalisation is best understood as a form of social injustice. This forces us to consider the possible solutions for preventing its expansion. Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and other civil society organisations are commonly seen as agents of social justice. But what exactly is the relationship between civil society and marginalisation? Can NGOs genuinely represent the interests of disadvantaged groups, or are they more likely to reinforce the power structures that lead to marginalisation in the first place? And how important are global connections in determining outcomes on the ground?
