Changes in Irregular Emigration: A Field Report from Fuzhou

This paper is based on case studies in Fuzhou, China, with the aim of exploring the changes in Fuzhou's irregular emigration activities. The findings indicate that due to changing socio-economic and historical circumstances, a more legalizing tendency of irregular emigration from Fuzhou can be observed. Among these new developments are the following: less risk, along with the use of safer tactics, is now involved in the process of emigration; emigrants are better supported with resources such as financial support, network support and a higher level of education; "legal" status is cherished in the process of emigration, and fewer and fewer emigrants are likely to be victimized by organized smuggling groups; and migratory waves have decelerated and the passion for emigration has become both more rational and more sensible.