Gender organizing in China: a study of female workers' representation needs and their perceptions of union efficacy

Abstract

This paper investigates gender organizing in China from the perspective of women employees in different industrial sectors and across ownership forms. It identifies women workers' views on their representation needs, level and effect of trade union activities, their related attitude towards unionism as well as alternative forms, if any, of organizing. The study reveals that women employees in government organizations, public sector, state-owned enterprises and private firms have significantly different needs and levels of identification with the union. It argues that the pluralism of employment relations in China across the spectrum of ownership forms and occupational groups should be given more recognition and attention than has been warranted.

Keywords:

• China
• gender
• trade union
• welfare role
• women workers
• workers representation