Preparing for war, social unrest or a new pandemic? Chinese companies are raising militias like it's the 1970s

Chinese companies are setting up their own volunteer armies known as the People’s Armed Forces Departments. At least 16 major Chinese firms have established these fighting forces over the past year. The units are composed of civilians who retain their regular jobs and act as a reserve and auxiliary force for China’s military. They are available for missions such as responding to natural disasters, maintaining social order, and providing support during wartime. These corporate brigades reflect Beijing’s growing concerns about potential conflict abroad and social unrest at home. The revival is also seen as a response to the pandemic and an effort to tighten Communist Party control over society.