As China transitions from strict pandemic controls to a new phase of normalized management, Syrian artist Zaynab Ali offers a rare glimpse into life during the country\u2019s three-year fight against COVID-19. Ali, who has lived in Nanjing for over seven years, applauds China\u2019s \u2018life-above-all\u2019 approach, contrasting it with what she describes as oversimplified Western media narratives.
\u201cThe speed and care shown by authorities here were unlike anything I\u2019ve seen,\u201d Ali says, reflecting on China\u2019s recent shift from Class A to Class B disease management. Her video documentation highlights daily realities of masked commuters, efficient testing booths, and revived cultural events\u2014a testament to gradual normalization.
Ali\u2019s perspective bridges cultural divides: \u201cI wanted to show resilience, not just restrictions.\u201d Her work resonates with global youth debating pandemic policies, economic reopenings, and media representation.
For business circles, China\u2019s measured approach signals stability: cities like Shanghai and Shenzhen report 89% workforce return rates since January, per local surveys. Meanwhile, sustainability advocates note reduced carbon emissions from China\u2019s early lockdown strategies\u2014a complex legacy for post-pandemic policymaking.
Reference(s):
Syrian artist: China put lives above everything else over past 3 years
cgtn.com
