Episode
What It’s Like Inside One of China’s Protests
30:50
Published: Wed Nov 30 2022
Description
Over the weekend, protests against China’s strict coronavirus restrictions ricocheted across the country in a rare case of nationwide civil unrest. It was the most extensive series of protests since the pro-democracy movement in Tiananmen Square in 1989.This is what these demonstrations look and feel like, and what they mean for President Xi Jinping and his quest for “zero Covid.”Guest: Vivian Wang, a China correspondent for The New York Times.Background reading: Demonstrations against coronavirus restrictions in China have evolved into broader demands. What are protesters calling for?In a country where protests are swiftly quashed, many who gathered to voice their discontent — under the watchful eye of the police — were uncertain about how far to go.For more information on today’s episode, visit nytimes.com/thedaily. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday.
Chapters
Demonstrations have broken out in at least 18 Chinese cities, as people demand an end to the government's "zero COVID" policy which enforces severe quarantines and lockdowns.
00:00 - 04:24 (04:24)
Summary
Demonstrations have broken out in at least 18 Chinese cities, as people demand an end to the government's "zero COVID" policy which enforces severe quarantines and lockdowns. The gatherings were sparked by outrage over the death of people due to the restrictions, but as videos of the protests circulated on social media, the movement gained traction.
EpisodeWhat It’s Like Inside One of China’s Protests
PodcastThe Daily
People face difficulties mobilizing for activism due to the lack of knowledge and connection to like-minded individuals.
04:24 - 15:45 (11:20)
Summary
People face difficulties mobilizing for activism due to the lack of knowledge and connection to like-minded individuals. Overcoming these barriers can lead to a more effective and rewarding experience.
EpisodeWhat It’s Like Inside One of China’s Protests
PodcastThe Daily
China is facing a tough choice between keeping its citizens safe by maintaining zero-covid policies or losing their trust by relaxing the restrictions.
15:45 - 28:04 (12:18)
Summary
China is facing a tough choice between keeping its citizens safe by maintaining zero-covid policies or losing their trust by relaxing the restrictions. The unspoken agreement between the government and people, where civil liberties are sacrificed for prosperity and safety, is at risk due to the prolonged pandemic.
EpisodeWhat It’s Like Inside One of China’s Protests
PodcastThe Daily
Biden urged Congress to pass legislation that would force striking workers to accept the proposed compromise, following four of the 12 unions rejecting the offered deal and planning a strike in December over pay and leave disputes.
28:04 - 30:44 (02:39)
Summary
Biden urged Congress to pass legislation that would force striking workers to accept the proposed compromise, following four of the 12 unions rejecting the offered deal and planning a strike in December over pay and leave disputes. Leaders in Congress have vowed to pass legislation to avoid the strike.