Spatio-temporal Disparity in the Inequality and Determinants of Disability-Related Multiple Deprivation between 2010 and 2020 in Tianjin Municipality, China

Qiu, Ning, Zhang, Tianjie, Cheng, Jianquan ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9778-9009 and Lv, Yulan (2025) Spatio-temporal Disparity in the Inequality and Determinants of Disability-Related Multiple Deprivation between 2010 and 2020 in Tianjin Municipality, China. Tijdschrift voor economische en sociale geografie (Journal of Economic and Human Geography). ISSN 0040-747X

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Abstract

Inclusive development in the Global South encounters challenges from a growing disability and development gap amid increasing education, employment and social participation, accompanied by higher expectations and resource consumption. This study aims to analyse the spatio-temporal disparity of the Index of Disability-Related Multiple Deprivation (IDMD) across 313 sub-districts in Tianjin Municipality from 2010 to 2020 and identify the socioeconomic factors and their heterogeneous effects. Results show persistent urban–rural disparities but decreasing intra-municipality disparities. Deprivation inequality varies across regions – decreasing in urban fringe and rural areas but increasing in the urban centre. Economic growth initially reduces IDMD until a certain point, beyond which it increases. The growth of migrant and elderly populations decreases IDMD. Urbanization's impact is limited, mainly affecting middle quantiles. Considering rapid economic development, urbanization and ageing, prioritizing disability-inclusive development is imperative. Further research should focus on health equality, particularly addressing rural individuals with disabilities, informal employment and ageing effects.