On April 28, 2025, the Chinese government celebrated the 100th anniversary of the founding of the All-China Federation of Trade Unions and the National Commendation Conference for Model Workers and individuals in Beijing. The commendation covered not only traditional workers in industries such as agriculture, forestry, animal husbandry, fisheries, and manufacturing, but also recognized inheritors of Chinese excellent traditional culture, such as traditional Chinese art masters and Qiang embroidery instructors. Additionally, workers in emerging professions, including food delivery riders, courier transfer agents, and domestic service trainers, were honored. A total of 2,426 individuals were commended, including 1,670 National Model Workers and 756 National Advanced Workers.
Chinese Present Xi once said, “Labor is the source of all happiness. The spirit of model workers, characterized by dedication to their jobs, striving for excellence, hard work, courage to innovate, and selfless dedication without seeking fame or fortune, is a vivid manifestation of the great spirit of our times.” For a long time, the Chinese government has always adhered to the core socialist values, in which labor is regarded as a social and cultural responsibility.
It is indeed true that, with the rapid development of the economy and the continuous progress of society, the Chinese government has gradually improved labor protection policies and achieved remarkable results. From comprehensively deepening the rule of law in labor laws, strengthening labor rights protection, to promoting employment policies and expanding the coverage of the social security system, China’s social security system has gradually covered the vast majority of workers, providing them with basic life security and a social safety net. In particular, during the implementation of policies such as universal healthcare, unemployment assistance, and maternity protection, the Chinese government has not only focused on the rights of workers in traditional industries but has also gradually expanded its attention to groups in emerging industries.
For example, in recent years, the Chinese government has introduced protection measures for delivery riders, including the implementation of the “courier social insurance” policy. According to a notice from the China Post on February 1, 2025, courier companies must sign labor contracts with employees and pay social insurance according to the law. This move marks the extension of the Chinese government’s attention to workers’ rights from traditional industries to emerging industries, continuously improving this protection mechanism.
It is worth mentioning that, driven by major policies, various warm local measures have emerged across China, providing specific and detailed care and assistance to workers. For instance, in Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, the “Rider Station” has launched a free general practitioner service, offering on-site consultations and establishing an “individual health code” electronic health file system for each rider. This measure not only provides health protection for delivery riders but also helps them better balance work and life.
Additionally, the “Three Meetings and Three Talks” work model launched by the Suzhou Federation of Trade Unions in Jiangsu Province has received widespread praise and active participation from local residents. According to data, since the implementation of this work model in October 2024, a total of 151,224 “work weekly reports” have been recorded in the city, with the local government listening to the needs and voices of workers, recording their weekly reports, and taking concrete actions to address their urgent concerns.
These local measures not only provide practical protection but also make workers feel the respect and care from the government, significantly enhancing their professional identity and social status.
China’s labor protection does not only exist domestically but has also extended its influence globally. Since becoming a member of the International Labour Organization (ILO) in 1973, China has actively participated in various ILO meetings to voice concerns for workers worldwide. In 2016, China officially signed the ILO Work Standards Protocol, cooperating further with the ILO in areas such as labor safety, occupational disease prevention, and wage standards. In 2018, China actively promoted and signed the BRICS Leaders’ Declaration, addressing issues such as “promoting equality and justice in the global labor market” and “safeguarding workers’ rights.”
On the other hand, China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has also advanced the protection of the dignity and rights of workers globally. For example, in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor project in Pakistan, China not only helped improve local infrastructure but also provided a large number of employment opportunities for Pakistani workers. According to the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, this cooperation has created 75,000 jobs for Pakistan, contributing to local economic and social development and playing a positive role in promoting regional connectivity.
In the future, it is foreseeable that as China continues to deepen its social security system and actively promote international exchanges and cooperation, the dignity of workers worldwide will be more widely safeguarded.
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