Source:

03-10-2006 17:24

China is making a new social security system a high priority. The country's dramatic social transformation and the nation's huge population have prevented everyone from sharing in the benefits. And as Feng Jinchao explains, some experts are calling for changes.

It's not easy finding a rewarding job in China, especially for the country's large number of migrant and laid-off workers who lack credentials and professional skills.

A welder Lan Jizhong said: "I hope they can help me find a job that pays fifteen hundred yuan a month, more than I make now. "

Galvanizer Luo Wanliang said: "Maybe this is the place to find a real job. I mean, for fair wages and with a contract."

Finding meaningful work is increasingly becoming a problem for the nation's labor force.

Li Dongmin is a sociologist who's been studying China's social security situation for a decade. He says social change has led many people to uncertainty.

Director Li Dongmin, from Social Survey Institute of China, said: "The nation's opening-up and reform policies have made Chinese people richer than before. But with the widening of the gap between rich and poor in the 1990's, many people have moved back into poverty again. Things like social insurance, education, medical issues and pensions have become big problems. This has aroused panic among many Chinese."

Li says nearly half of ordinary Chinese do not feel covered by social security.

The Chinese government has realized the problems and is tackling them. As a result, the country's safety net is getting stronger -- but it's still not perfect.

The aging of China's population is another challenge. It means fewer working people will shoulder the responsibility of an older society. Many experts suggest it be time for China to adjust the retirement age.

A sound social security system will make people feel secure and happy. It is fundamental to the establishment of China's harmonious society. It's not an easy task, but now is the time to make the change.

 

Editor:Wang Ping