Economist Podcasts Climbers (part one): A way out of China
Oct 8, 2024
In a picturesque town called Necoclí, Chinese migrants prepare for a treacherous journey to America. Disillusioned with their dreams back home, they embark on a perilous trek through the Darién Gap. Personal accounts reveal the stark contrast between the town's beauty and the harrowing realities faced by travelers. With the support of local businesses, these individuals chase a risky adventure while grappling with betrayal and danger. The complex emotions and resilience of these migrants paint a poignant picture of their quest for freedom.
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Sister Huang's Story
- Sister Huang, a migrant worker in her 40s, left her rural village in China seeking a better life.
- She divorced her husband, raised two children, and worked abroad, demonstrating resilience and ambition.
Involution and Chulhu
- The term "involution" describes the declining returns for increased effort in China's current economic climate.
- Sister Huang seeks "chulhu," a way out of this downward spiral and a path to upward mobility.
Agan's Family
- A visually impaired migrant, Agan, and his family are undertaking the journey for their children's future and a freer life.
- Agan's political awakening stemmed from discrepancies between Chinese media and reality during the pandemic.