It was established on May 1, 1925. Its major functions are to safeguard the lawful rights and interests of workers and their democratic rights; mobilize and organize workers to take part in the management of the state and social affairs; take part in the democratic management of enterprises, institutions and government organs; educate workers to raise their ideological qualifications and science and cultural attainment; and help build up contingents of workers with lofty ideals, high morals, cultural attainment and discipline. It consists of a general affairs office, policy research office, organizational department, publicity, education, culture and sports department, economic work department, social security work department, finance department, grassroots work department, legal work department, women workers department, and international liaison department.

(China.org.cn May 20, 2003)