The Intelligence from The Economist Zero's intolerance: Shanghai’s messy lockdown
Apr 6, 2022
Don Wineland, The Economist’s China business and finance editor, reveals the chaos of Shanghai’s strict lockdown as residents grapple with restrictions and dwindling supplies. Alexandra Sewitch-Bass, a senior correspondent, discusses uncomfortable heat conditions in American prisons due to lack of air conditioning, raising urgent questions around inmates' rights. Together, they highlight how these pressing issues reflect broader societal challenges and the ongoing struggle for human dignity in extreme circumstances.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Shanghai Lockdown Protests
- Shanghai residents protested lack of supplies during the lockdown by singing from their balconies.
- Authorities responded with drones broadcasting messages ordering compliance and to "control your soul's desire for freedom."
Zero-COVID Stretched
- Omicron's arrival in Shanghai is challenging China's zero-COVID policy.
- The government is employing what looks like military operations, with mass quarantines and thousands of support personnel deployed.
Dire Conditions in Shanghai
- Residents report dire conditions: lack of food, medicine shortages, and violent enforcement by hazmat-suited personnel.
- Videos show toddlers separated from parents after testing positive, highlighting the human cost of the lockdown.