(China Daily)
Updated: 2008-03-21 07:23

If we can solve the practical problems of migrant workers, it would make them feel much happier than merely setting aside a special day for them, says an article in People's Daily. The following is an excerpt:

Recently, Chongqing decided to establish a Migrant Workers' Day to thank them for their contribution to the city.

With rapid industrialization and urbanization, more and more farmers are moving to work in cities. They have contributed to the development of many cities. But due to historical faults, the rights of migrant workers are still not fully guaranteed.

The setting up of the Migrant Workers' Day by Chongqing shows gratitude and respect. But it is not enough. Migrant workers should be guaranteed their wages are paid on time, their children properly educated, and their living standards raised. Only by letting migrant workers enjoy the same privileges as their urban counterparts can we say they are receiving due respect.

The government should do more to care for migrant workers. In the short term, it should try to ease their practical difficulties. In the long term, the government should introduce laws and regulations to resolve the chronic problems, like residential registration and social security.

(China Daily 03/21/2008 page8)