China Blocks World Meeting on Workers’ Rights

With its low cost environment, especially cheap labor, China has become the world's largest producer of manufactured goods. However, not only NGOs but increasingly foreign governments and business leaders have urged China to do more to protect workers' rights. China only allows government-controlled labor union. Recently Beijing appeared to be listening when Prime Minister Wen Jiabao vowed to address the issue of unsafe working conditions. Now, China's sudden decision to cancel an OECD sponsored meeting of global union leaders appears to be a step backwards. - YaleGlobal