The impact of anti-corruption on migration and family welfare

Abstract

This study examines the impact of anti-corruption on migration patterns and family welfare. By leveraging the varying effects of China's anti-corruption campaign across counties with different pre-existing corruption levels, we apply an intensity Difference-in-Differences approach. Our findings reveal a significant decline in labor outflows attributed to the campaign, especially in rural households. The reduction in the number of migrants within a family in the most corrupt counties is about 0.4 units greater compared to the least corrupt counties post-campaign. Three mechanisms are identified through which the campaign may influence migration: increased government subsidies, enhanced satisfaction with income, and reinforced social identity. However, tangible improvements in infrastructure are minimal. Additionally, the reduction in migration correlates with fewer left-behind children, and improved health and academic outcomes. The elderly also receive increased care from their children and exhibit better health post-campaign.