Conduct Research at CLB

China Labour Bulletin maintains a constantly updated, comprehensive computer database detailing the worker lawsuits that CLB supports as part of our labour rights litigation program. Containing over 1,000 cases dating back to 2004, the database compiles detailed information on each case, categorizing the rights being violated, the location and industry of the employer, non-judicial actions taken, the length of time and actions taken before a case concludes, and information about the worker plaintiff’s background.

CLB believes that the database can be a wealth of aggregate data for independent researchers and academics studying Chinese labour law and the labour dispute resolution process, and we welcome researchers who are interested in utilizing that data. Potential avenues of research include analysing the effect that laws, union membership, regions, industries, enterprise ownership, or gender, have on the course and outcome of litigation.

The database is situated at CLB’s office in Kowloon, Hong Kong, and researchers would have to come to that office to access the data. To make the best use of the data, a basic understanding of computer databases, including how to conduct database queries, is helpful, as is familiarity with Microsoft Access. All data is in Chinese, so a good working knowledge of written Chinese is essential.

If you are interested in utilizing the database please write to clbeditor@clb.org.hk for more information, including conditions of use.