Dr. Xiaoyuan Shang

Biography

Xiaoyuan Shang is an Associate Professor at the Social Policy Research Centre, University of New South Wales, specializing in social welfare and child protection in China. With a solid academic background including a BA from Nankai University, an MA from China, and a PhD from the University of Sussex, Dr. Shang has focused his recent research on critical issues related to poverty alleviation and social services for vulnerable groups, including the elderly and disabled in China. Between 2001 and 2005, he led significant investigations into the welfare of children in institutional care, particularly those affected by HIV/AIDS. His work, co-authored in the publication 'Search Civil Society: Market Reform and Social Change in Contemporary China', has prompted vital policy changes in the country. Notably, his research has directly influenced the transition of many children from institutional care to foster care and has contributed to the establishment of a new social assistance system for orphans in rural areas. His contributions were recognized by the Australia-China Council, which awarded him the Alice Tay Human Rights Award in 2003 for his significant work in improving child rights in China. Currently, Dr. Shang is engaged in several ongoing research projects aimed at enhancing child protection systems and supporting older individuals with disabilities in China.

Research Interests