China supports employment of military spouses

China on Thursday gave guidance on the employment of military spouses, approved by the State Council, China's cabinet, and the Central Military Commission.

People who were civil servants or employees of public institutions before relocating to join spouses in military service should be recruited by comparible local government agencies and public institutions, vacancy permitting.

In 2011, the scope of soldiers allowed to live with their families in the army was extended to lower-ranking officers, such as company commanders, while previously only officers ranked as vice battalion commanders or above enjoyed such priviledges. The new policy will benefit nearly 100,000 servicemen.

Relocating spouses face numerous challenges in reemployment, especially considering that many military units are based in remote or underdeveloped regions, said Wang Chengzhi, a senior officer with the General Political Department of the People's Liberation Army (PLA).

Those spouses who used to be state employees may find extra difficulties in landing a public service job after relocation as many government agencies now require applicants to take highly competitive exams, Wang said.

Wang believes offering employment breaks to spouses is necessary to compensate for the sacrifices of serving one's country.