Chinese vent anger over zero-COVID: 'When can we lead a free life?'

Words of protest written on bathroom walls as restrictions continue for tens of millions

20221101N Shanghai

Over 200 million Chinese were under lockdowns or other COVID-19-related restrictions as of Oct. 24, Nomura estimates. © Reuters

SHIN WATANABE, Nikkei staff writer

DALIAN, China -- The Chinese government's strict zero-COVID policy has sparked unusual expressions of defiance, ranging from protests in Tibet and Shenzhen to anti-lockdown graffiti.

Photos started appearing on Instagram in late October showing cries for democracy and a life without coronavirus restrictions scrawled on the walls and doors of public bathrooms.

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