What does the term 'Corvee labor' refer to?

The term 'Corvee labor' specifically refers to a form of unpaid labor that is mandated by authorities, typically in the context of a government or local ruling entity requiring individuals to work for a certain number of days on public projects or services. This type of labor is often imposed on the lower classes or peasantry and can be seen in historical contexts where it was used to construct roads, canals, or other infrastructure without providing monetary compensation to the workers. Corvee labor is distinctly characterized by its involuntary nature, contrasting with voluntary involvement seen in community service or paid labor contracts. This system highlights the relationships of power and control between governing bodies and laborers, emphasizing the socio-economic dynamics at play in various cultures and periods.