However, urban unrest, such as recent riots by factory workers in the southern province of Guangdong, is now more common.

ECONOMIST: China's future

Compulsory demolition, even if it is aimed at creating better housing for the occupants, has long been a cause of small-scale unrest across urban China.

ECONOMIST: Reforming the north-east

France has been shaken by unrest in poorer urban areas on several occasions in recent years, notably in 2005, when the deaths of two young men of North African descent sparked weeks of rioting.

CNN: STORY HIGHLIGHTS

China's leadership is terrified by the prospect of social unrest from rising joblessness, particularly among the urban elite.

ECONOMIST: Unemployment

The thrust of China's strategy will remain boosting urban development in the hope that this will create job opportunities for rural migrants and prevent unrest among city dwellers.

ECONOMIST: Reforms to keep things the same