China's Labour Unions Push for Gender Equality in Hiring Practices

Chinese labour unions have demanded that companies stop requiring female job applicants to disclose marital and childbearing status. This move aims to combat gender inequality in hiring, a common issue worsened by concerns over population decline. The new directive emphasizes equal treatment and protection for female employees.

In a significant move against gender discrimination, several Chinese labour unions have instructed companies to cease the practice of asking prospective female employees about their marital and childbearing status. This directive, coming from unions in regions such as central Hunan and Shenzhen, has sparked considerable discussion on social media.

The practice of probing female candidates about their family plans has grown common in China, posing barriers for women concerned about career impacts of motherhood. The directive urges companies to avoid prioritizing men during the hiring process, aiming to dismantle entrenched stereotypes that view women mainly as caregivers.

Despite positive reactions, some netizens express skepticism, fearing the change might deter firms from hiring women altogether. The discord between work expectations and societal pressures to have children highlights ongoing gender role conflicts in China.

(With inputs from agencies.)