Labour rights in China [background]

Throughout China, workers are denied their basic rights to freedom of expression and association

Independent trade unions are not allowed in China - there is only one state run union – The All China Federation of Trade Unions.

Each year there are increasing protests and demonstrations throughout China as workers complain about forced layoffs, missing wages and other benefits, official corruption and mismanagement. Denied the right to form independent trade unions and deprived of any real voice in industry, Chinese workers have no option but to take to the streets in an effort to highlight their plight.

Although the Chinese Government has ratified the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR), it placed a reservation on its obligations towards Article 8 of the Covenant, which guarantees trade union rights, in particular Article 8.1a on the right to freedom of association.

Legitimate protests are branded as “illegal demonstrations”. Many ordinary workers are detained after peaceful protests, interrogated, and sometimes beaten before release. The families of those vocal in protests are harassed and subject to constant police surveillance. Worker activists and ordinary workers taking part in demonstrations are detained and often sentenced to long terms of imprisonment for their involvement in protests.

China Labour Bulletin urges the Chinese authorities to allow workers the fundamental right to freedom of association and expression, including the right to form independent trade unions.

CLB believes that with the continuing economic changes in China and the subsequent layoffs, unemployment, and corruption, there will be no end to labour unrest unless the Chinese Government takes urgent action to remedy its causes and to recognize the legitimate right of workers to protest.