Assessing the Spatio-temporal Pattern and Analysis of Obstacles to Rural Revitalization in China's Yangtze River Delta Region

It is crucial to objectively assess the development level of rural revitalization in China's Yangtze River Delta (YRD) region and its evolution pattern. This study uses the entropy method to measure the development level of rural revitalization in the YRD region from 2013 to 2022. We use the kernel density equation to analyze its evolution and spatial autocorrelation to analyze its spatial aggregation effect, and finally, the main factors affecting the development of rural revitalization were derived using the barrier model. It is found that the development level of rural revitalization in the Yangtze River Delta region is on an upward trend from 2013 to 2022, and spatially manifests itself in the form of “eastern coastal cities are larger than western regional cities. Meanwhile, there is obvious spatial aggregation of rural revitalization development level among different cities in the Yangtze River Delta region. Finally, the analysis using the obstacle model concludes that the main first-level obstacle affecting the development level of rural revitalization is living a well-off life, while among the third-level indicators, the main obstacle is the incidence of rural poverty.To address the identified obstacles, policymakers should prioritize improving rural infrastructure and public services to enhance living standards. Specific measures include increasing investment in rural areas for better access to education, healthcare, and transportation. Additionally, targeted poverty alleviation programs and agricultural support initiatives can help reduce rural poverty rates. Promoting rural industries and agricultural innovation will also be crucial for sustainable rural development and achieving the goal of rural revitalization.