ChinaTalk EMERGENCY POD: China's Protests: What Happens Next
Nov 28, 2022
Protests erupt in China over COVID-zero policies, fueled by a tragic fire in Urumqi. The discussion highlights potential government crackdowns and the historical context of dissent. Voices from the ground reveal deep frustrations and a yearning for political reform. An exploration of how these protests might shift Xi's grip on power and reshape international perceptions of China adds depth. This moment could signify a pivotal change in China's path, resonating emotionally with those watching from afar.
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Urumqi Fire Sparks Protests
- Protests erupted in Urumqi, Xinjiang, following an apartment fire that killed ten, allegedly due to COVID-0 restrictions.
- These protests, primarily by the Han Chinese population, quickly spread to 79 university campuses and major cities across China.
From Everyday Democracy to Autocracy
- COVID zero has shifted daily life in China from "everyday democracy" to "everyday autocracy," fueling widespread cross-class anger.
- This anger manifests as protests involving educated youth and workers across the country.
Xi's Dilemma
- Xi Jinping faces two key decisions: how to handle the COVID-0 policy and how to suppress the protests.
- The key unknown is the protests' momentum and how these decisions will impact public opinion and further actions.