The Intelligence from The Economist In their own Swede time: pandemic pragmatism
Oct 12, 2020
In this engaging discussion, Slavena Čankova, The Economist’s health care correspondent, shares insights into Sweden's unique, light-touch approach to COVID-19, emphasizing its long-term health and economic implications. Meanwhile, David Rennie, the Beijing bureau chief, reveals the complexities of Chinese street-level law enforcement, highlighting nuanced interactions with street vendors. Together, they examine how these contrasting perspectives shape societal norms, resistance, and innovative strategies like using decoy eggs to combat sea turtle egg poaching.
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Tragedy in Södertalje
- Slavena Čankova visited a cemetery in Södertalje, Sweden, with journalist Nuri Kino.
- The cemetery had many new graves, primarily of immigrants who died from COVID-19 in April and May.
Sweden's Grim Statistics
- Sweden's COVID-19 death rate is among the highest in Europe, roughly ten times higher than Norway and Finland's.
- About half the deaths were in elder care homes, and immigrant communities were severely hit early on.
Economic Impact
- Sweden aimed to keep its economy strong through its light restrictions.
- However, Sweden's economic shrinkage in the second quarter was greater than other Nordic countries.