Transformation of high altitude livestock-keeping in China’s mountainous western periphery

High Asia has experienced a number of societal transformations in recent years that have significantly affected the livelihoods of pastoralists and combined mountain farmers. In the first place, changes have occurred in the management practices and the relationship between state institutions and pastoralists. A closer look reveals that significant transformations prevail in all locations concerned. In the context of the PR of China, cases from Tibet and Xinjiang are presented in order to highlight the effects of most recent resettlement schemes that follow a rationale of environmental protection and modernisation in order to stop degradation and to contribute to poverty alleviation among pastoralists. After collectivisation these are the most effective interventions in the pastoral sector and will significantly change animal husbandry and pastoral livelihoods in High Asia.