Falling through the floor

Migrant women workers' quest for decent work in Dongguan, China

China Labour Bulletin, 54 pages, paperback. Download from: www.china-labour.org.hk/fs/view/research-reports/Women_Workers_Report.pdf

This publication describes the realities of working life for millions of migrant women in China. They work 16-hour shifts, their wages have been static in real terms for a decade and they have to work compulsory overtime. They face heavy fines for minor infractions such as "spending too long in the toilet". It is no surprise that they have no unions or representation.

The report is based on interviews with 30 migrant workers, mainly women, in the city of Dongguan. It documents their lives in sectors such as textiles and shoes - producing the clothing worn by millions across the globe. Despite the risks, they have organised the occasional strike, illustrating that there is hope for the emergence of a genuine, independent labour movement in China.