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Feature: The new generation of migrant workers

2010-02-24 09:00 BJT

Special Report: No.1 Document Targets Rural-Urban Development |

China is seeing a new generation of migrant workers flowing into its biggest cities. Unlike their parents, this group has no desire to return to their villages. They want to live in modern and urban lifestyles. This year the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China and the State council put forward the concept of the "New Generation Migrant workers" for the first time in the No.1 Document.

This new generation of migrant workers symbolizes the changing landscape of China's labor force. These young workers are now the major driving force of the millions of people who leave their villages for the cities each year.

Deng YongJie, born in the 90s, is part of this new generation. He has 2 younger sisters back home. He says, his current job could be quite tough sometimes. But so far, he says he's satisfied with his new life.

Young migrant worker Deng Yongjie said, "During our busiest period, I have to do overnight shifts. I only have one hour for lunch everyday. I don't go out much, only to internet cafes sometimes. I send all the money I can save, back home to support my sisters' education. I can save about half of my earnings, about 1,000 yuan a month. I hope my salary this year will be increased."

Analysts also point out that most of the younger generation is better educated. They have taken a different world view compared with their parents. They don't just work for money. They also hope to gain more experience, to pursue a better life in the future.

Young migrant worker Tong Jingfei said, "I want to find a fashionable job. I want to be accepted by society as soon as possible. I also want to work in the city. "

Young migrant worker Pei Yukun said, "I don't want to be just a factory worker. I also want to work in an office. Because the salary is relatively higher, and you won't get too exhausted physically."

The new generation of migrant workers were born in the 1980s and 1990s. Although they are still registered as rural residents, most of them have actually been brought up in big cities. They are familiar with urban lifestyles, and expect higher salaries, better working conditions and employment opportunities, than their parent's generation. 

Editor: Zhang Ning | Source: CCTV.com