From Chinese Press

Decent pay needed

(China Daily)
Updated: 2010-05-04 08:27

The idea that work is glorious is common sense, but only if workers are paid decently, says an article in the People's Daily. Excerpts:

The situation of ordinary workers is drawing more attention from the government. With the concept "decent work" being adopted, many local governments have also raised the standard of minimum wages.

Without doubt, just distribution of social wealth is an essential aspect of social justice. Since most laborers earn their income from wages, it is important to raise their pay so that they could enjoy a happier life. In some sense, the pay is related not only to their standard of living, but also their life's dignity, because material wealth is very important in deciding one's social status.

That's why raising workers' wages is considered an important step towards social harmony. A widening gap in incomes would challenge social stability, and bring harm to us all. Only through a more just distribution system of social wealth can the ideal of harmonious society be realized.

(China Daily 05/04/2010 page9)