The third space and the social network in the Vietnam - China border region

Abstract

The third space in the Vietnam-China border region is constructed based on spatial negotiations, temporal negotiations, and negotiations of political subjectivities of border residents. The social networks of this region, which have a strong connection to the third space, have been built by the cross-border interactions of individuals, families, and communities. Research on the third space and the social networks of the Vietnam-China border region provides an understanding of the complexity of this border region as well as the ineffectiveness of social governance. To narrow the third space and to minimize the negativeness of the cross-border social networks in the Vietnam-China border region, it is essential to develop the peripheries to meet the local demands of goods and employment.