Spatial justice and the equitable distribution of urban resources for children: A case study of Tianjin, China

Abstract

As urbanization accelerates, the uneven nature of urban spatial development has led to regional disparities in residents’ developmental opportunities. Children, as a significant vulnerable group, find their growth environments and life chances profoundly affected by the urban spatial context. This study, grounded in the theory of spatial justice, analyzes the spatial distribution characteristics of 139 designated Child-Friendly Community (CFC) pilot sites in Tianjin, China. By assessing the alignment of these sites with the city’s child population distribution, the research investigates the equity of public resource allocation. The findings reveal a complex picture: while a spatial Gini coefficient of 0.28 suggests a relatively balanced distribution at the macro level, a deeper analysis uncovers a severe “core-periphery” disparity in practical accessibility. Resources are densely concentrated in the central urban districts, leading to walkable service radii. In contrast, peripheral suburban districts face challenges of excessively large service radii and insufficient facility coverage. This analysis underscores a structural imbalance where the allocation of public resources, guided by a top-down, state-led planning model, fails to match the demographic needs and lived realities of children in the urban fringe. The study concludes by proposing policy recommendations focused on optimizing spatial layouts and regulating resource allocation to foster more equitable and just urban development for children, offering insights relevant to other rapidly urbanizing cities facing similar challenges of spatial injustice.