Protests in China

Introduction:

Protests in China are a common occurrence, yet they often go unreported by state-controlled media, and authorities swiftly suppress dissent. This overview delves into notable protests, their triggers, and the dynamics surrounding them.

Local People's Congress Elections (March 2022):

• In March 2022, protests erupted in Shanghai over the local People's Congress Elections, with demonstrators resorting to social media platforms like WeChat and Weibo.
• Despite swift government crackdowns, the protests gained international attention, impacting China's stock market.

'Zero-Covid' Policy Protests:

• Widespread protests erupted across China against Xi Jinping's 'Zero-Covid' policy, prompting authorities to quell dissent swiftly.
• Overseas media coverage and the impact on the Chinese stock market led to China ending its strict lockdown policy.

Risk of Arrest and Hong Kong Dynamics:

• Protesters, especially in Hong Kong, face heightened risks of arrest as authorities clamp down on dissent.
• Hong Kong has seen an upsurge in protests since the Umbrella Protests of 2014, reflecting ongoing tensions.

Successes in Specific Demands:

• Protests demanding specific changes, while avoiding direct challenges to the CCP, have seen some success.
• The '996' work culture protest by tech workers led to China's top court declaring the practice illegal in 2021.
• University students' social media protests in 2019 resulted in the firing of two professors accused of sexual assault, marking a significant moment in China's #MeToo movement.

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Protests in China

Conclusion:

Protests in China, though frequently suppressed, continue to serve as outlets for dissent and catalysts for change. The dynamics of state control, international visibility, and specific demands shape the trajectory of these protests.