The dual discourse phenomenon and its deep logic in the rights protection of migrant workers in the Pearl River Delta

Abstract

The increasing popularity of the Internet and the rapid development of social media in China have given more power of discourse to migrant workers, who have traditionally been in a disadvantageous position in terms of labor conflict. Based on a textual analysis of a typical strike, this article finds that, during collective protest, the discourse of migrant workers is dual, as it consists of both a traditional class discourse and a modern legal discourse. When using traditional class discourse, they do so to justify their actions and win the sympathy and support of public opinion. When applying modern legal discourse, they do so to cater to the governing concept of rule by law in contemporary China and use it as a means to advocate practical economic interests. This dual discourse is a reflection of the political reality in contemporary China, and points to the contradiction faced by China’s ruling party in the transition period.