The workers grievances for higher pay and better working conditions were not aimed solely at Japanese firms, since some of the above-mentioned plants were joint ventures with Chinese government-owned enterprises, so the strikes were actions against the Chinese state.

FORBES: China's 'Generation X'

The government acknowledges workers' grievances, but refuses to be drawn into discussions on pay or privatisation.

ECONOMIST: Colombia

The global economic downturn kept wages down and increased workers' grievances.

ECONOMIST: Unions in China

As workers shouted their grievances to journalists at the gate, police kept their distance.

ECONOMIST: China's labour market

One of the most common grievances that they hear from workers is that managers expect as much as 70-hour working weeks, often without adequate compensation.

ECONOMIST: Poland's deficit

Even if the problem merits third-party involvement, don't air grievances in meetings or with other co-workers.

WSJ: How to Handle a Bad Co-Worker