The Process and Mechanisms of Rural Governance Network Transformation: A Case Study of Tianlong Tunpu in Anshun City, China

Effective rural governance is essential for fully advancing rural revitalization and achieving sustainable development in rural areas. The construction and operation of rural governance networks are intrinsically tied to governance effectiveness. Focusing on the Tianlong Tunpu community in Guizhou Province, China, this research applies Actor–Network Theory (ANT) to analyze the transformation of rural governance networks. It introduces the “administrative–social–market” threefold empowerment mechanism to explain the underlying mechanism of this process. The findings indicate that the successful construction and operation of a stable rural governance network hinge on the ability of key actors to continuously mobilize administrative, social, and market resources during translation processes, thereby achieving stable “administrative–social–economic” threefold empowerment. This mechanism is dynamic, adapting through reallocation and adjustment to meet the changing realities of rural development. The study also highlights the combined influence of human and non-human actors in the rural governance network. Among non-human factors, Tunpu culture stands out for its cultural and economic value, serving as a shared foundation for collaboration between local governments, rural elites, villagers, and businesses. This cultural element acts as a cornerstone, ensuring the network’s stability and adaptability over time.