ABSTRACT
Two China dam experiences, Shuikou and Yantan, demonstrate how sound resettlement practices led to successful and relatively rapid income restoration for affected households, even though large numbers of people had to be moved to terrain much less hospitable for farming than the areas they left. The Shuikou resettlement planning process required extensive consultation with township and village leaders, particularly in selecting resettlement sites and identifying the major economic rehabilitation options. Restoration of "incomes" and "living standards" is an important element of national and provincial resettlement policy; however, the Chinese position is that by managing employment they can also deliver on incomes. China's evident concern for jobs, incomes, full participation, family welfare, and equitable growth illuminates the ongoing debate over Chinese respect for human rights. It supports government's assertion that whatever its attitude toward freedom of political expression, its record on furthering the ideals of family welfare must be respected.
