China vows to safeguard migrant workers' rights

    BEIJING, March 27 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese government issued a document on Monday, attaching great priority to dealing with the issue of protecting the rights of migrant workers from the countryside.

    It is of great importance to recognize and resolve the issue of migrant laborers from rural areas as these people have become a main force in the processing and manufacturing industries, building industry, mining industry, sanitary work, home management and catering sector, says the document on resolving the issue of farmer-turned workers by the State Council.

    In the document, the State Council recognizes the major problem of safeguarding the rights of these workers who face the problems of low and often delayed pay, long working hours, poor safety conditions, lack of social security, occupational diseases and industrial accidents and injuries, and difficulties in training, children's schooling, and living conditions.

    It calls for equal treatment of migrant workers, by respecting and safeguarding their legal rights and removing all kinds of discriminating regulations and systematic obstacles in order to enable them to enjoy equal rights and responsibilities as their urban counterparts. Enditem

Govt reiterates ban on child labor, protection of women workers' rights

    BEIJING, March 27 (Xinhua) -- Chinese government reiterated the ban on employment of child laborers and the issue of protecting the rights of women and underage employees on Monday.

    Employers of underage workers must follow laws and regulations while anyone who is involved in marketing and employing child laborers will be severely punished. Full coverage

Trade unions urged to protect rights of migrant workers

    BEIJING, March 27 (Xinhua) -- Trade unions of all levels should play a better role in protecting rights of migrant workers from rural areas, according to the State Council document.

    The document on resolving the issue of rural workers by the State Council also urges employers to ensure migrant workers' rights to join trade unions in accordance with the law. Full coverage

People's Daily to echo govt call to protect migrant workers' rights

    BEIJING, March 27 (Xinhua) -- People's Daily is to publish an editorial, entitled "The Whole Society Should Care and Protect Rural Labors", on Tuesday, in response to the State Council's call for protecting the rights of migrant workers from the countryside. Full coverage