BEIJING - Even though an increasing number of new-generation migrant workers have started considering themselves white-collar workers, social discrimination against them still exists in cities, a survey has found.

According to the survey, conducted by the Beijing-based China Youth Daily, more than 83 percent of respondents expressed support for workers who wished to become urban residents.

The survey was based on interviews with 7,402 people in 31 provinces and municipalities.

The term "new-generation migrant workers" refers to migrants born in the 1980s and 1990s.

About 60 percent of China's migrant workers are below the age of 30, according to statistics.

"The new group has developed simple ideas about equality and democracy, which distinguishes them from their parents," said Zhang Yi, a researcher with the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences.

A recent investigation in Guangdong province showed the high cost of living, the lack of social welfare and an inability to afford housing are the top three hurdles for new-generation migrant workers to become citizens in their host cities.

JIN ZHU / CHINA DAILY

(China Daily 03/03/2010 page4)