Follow us on TWITTER: twitter.com Like us on FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com There are approximately 270 million migrant workers in China. According to China’s household registration policy, these migrant workers do not have equal access to education, health care and other services, and thus become second class citizens. Guangdong Province recently introduced a new household registration policy that uses a point system. Nonetheless, the policy favors wealthy individuals and people who have university level education. Migrant workers believe this is a failed policy. Since 1985, a large number of migrant workers flooded into cities and manufacturing centers. China’s household registration system classifies Chinese citizens into urban citizens and rural citizens. Migrant workers cannot enjoy the welfare benefits as urban residents do. Despite the introduction of a new household registration policy, major cities are not willing to open household registrations to all people. The criteria for registration are more stringent. Household register worker Mr Li said that it is unfair that the new policy restricts the migrant workers who make the most contributions to the city. Mr Li: “In order to move to the city, you need to have education and other capabilities. People are equal. Why do you need all this in order to come to the city? If he has money to buy a train ticket, then let him come. If he has the ability to live here, then let him stay. His working here helps the construction …
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