Chinas Youth Pursue Stable Government Jobs Amid Economic Uncertainty

Last Updated on December 18, 2023 by Robert C. Hoopes

Title: Record Number of Candidates Seek Stability in China’s Competitive Civil Service Exam

In recent years, an increasing number of Chinese graduates are turning to the civil service as they seek stability and secure employment, leading to a record high number of candidates taking China’s civil service exam this year. However, the competition for these coveted government positions remains fierce, with only a small percentage of candidates actually securing employment.

The civil service exam is a mandatory requirement for those aspiring to be considered for vacant civil service jobs in China. Reserved primarily for recent Chinese graduates, these positions offer job security, stability, and a range of benefits including better medical insurance, a preferential pension plan, and consistent bonus pay-outs. This has led to the nickname “iron rice bowl,” highlighting the security and stability associated with civil service positions.

This year, the number of candidates surpassed three million for the first time, while the number of vacant positions remained low. Despite the daunting odds, some candidates, like Du Xin, managed to successfully secure government jobs, which further adds to the allure of the civil service career.

The civil service exam assesses candidates on their general knowledge, analytical skills, and their understanding of President Xi Jinping’s ideology. These exams play a significant role in filtering out candidates and determining who is fit for the demanding roles within the civil service.

The increasing popularity of the civil service as a career choice can be attributed to the economic uncertainty in China. With struggling growth rates and layoffs in the private sector, many graduates view the public sector as a safer option. Job security and stability have become major concerns for young Chinese people seeking employment, and the civil service appears to offer a viable solution.

The high number of unemployed youths in major cities has even become a concern for the government. Some Communist organizations have proposed sending unemployed individuals to the countryside to foster rural development, harking back to strategies employed during the Cultural Revolution. However, many consider this suggestion unrealistic in modern times.

As the number of candidates taking China’s civil service exam continues to rise, it reflects a growing trend among recent graduates seeking secure careers. The allure of job security, stability, and attractive benefits make the civil service an appealing choice amidst economic uncertainties in the private sector. However, only a fortunate few will manage to secure the prestigious government positions they desire, as the competition remains intense.