Workers’ rights defence on China's internet: an analysis of actors

The impact of COVID-19 on maritime pilots: Evidence and lessons

“…For effective worker participation, a number of preconditions are necessary, including autonomous workplace representation and external trade union support, consultation and communication between representatives and workers, management commitment to OHS and a participatory approach, and strong legislation backed up by effective external oversight [50] . However, these are largely absent in China, where freedom of association and genuine trade unionism are not allowed ( [20] , [45] ).…”

“…The problem of worker participation in OHS management needs to be addressed by the management of the pilot stations, the port authority and the government at various levels to create the conditions for a participatory approach to improve working conditions and OHS of workers, and ultimately port productivity and economy in the long run. Although freedom of association and genuine trade unionism are not allowed in China ( [20] , [45] ), regular safety meetings between pilots and management could be arranged so that pilots could raise and discuss their concerns with management. In addition, ports and pilot stations generally have safety management systems (SMS) in place, which require a commitment to OHS from the top and a participatory approach.…”

Competing for seafaring labour: Social security and agency employment in Chinese shipping

“…Thus, to call for the authorities to step up their enforcement effort and pay more attention to migrant and agency workers may be too generic. What is more specific in this case though is that seafarers do not have effective union or collective representation in China (Tang, Shan, et al., 2016). It can be envisaged that some forms of collective representation would make seafarers more able to pressurise the enforcement authorities, bargain with crewing agencies and raise awareness of social security issues among themselves.…”

The Routledge Handbook of Ocean Space

“…Moreover, the 'war of words' practised through sailor publishing practices, continues with regular attempts made to articulate grievances emerging from contemporary ocean spaces. Tang et al (2016) note the multiple grassroots efforts to raise awareness of Chinese workers' rights through online activism. They highlight efforts to illuminate health and safety concerns for Chinese sailors, and the awareness raising practices of families who are connected to an injury and or death at sea.…”