Protests Surge in China Over Poor Working Conditions and Unpaid Wages

• Labor protests in China have surged since August 2022, tripling in Q4 2023 compared to Q4 2022 according to rights groups

• The protests are linked to poor working conditions, wage disputes, China's economic slowdown, and struggles in manufacturing and real estate sectors

• Construction workers and migrants are especially affected and likely to protest over lack of pay

• The property sector crisis and local governments' budget shortfalls make it difficult to aid stranded workers

• Workers hope for better pay and benefits to match the difficult nature of jobs like construction