China - September 2022

A new wave of Covid-19 outbreaks prompted strict lockdowns and mass testing under the country's "zero-Covid" policy. Millions of residents were forced to stay at home for two weeks in Chengdu, with a similar three-day lockdown imposed on Shenzhen. An earthquake in the former prompted backlash from residents reporting that they were blocked from fleeing their homes. Experts have warned of the political use of such measures, with incessant lockdowns allegedly being imposed ahead of the National Party Congress in October. 

Sources: South China Morning Post, The New York Times, The Atlantic, BBC News