China's Youth Threatens CCP's Rules

Summary

The 'Let It Rot' movement (bailan) in China is a peaceful yet impactful protest led by young people who feel disillusioned with their country's work culture, job market, and societal pressures. This quiet revolt stems from issues like high unemployment, economic uncertainty, and housing affordability. The Chinese government's past policies, such as the one-child policy and its crackdown on private industries like education, have worsened these conditions. The movement, along with other factors, threatens China's economy, which is facing deflation and a shrinking workforce as its population ages.

Takeaways

• 📉 China's 'Let it Rot' (Bailan) movement is a peaceful, yet worrisome revolt led by the younger generation, which could hurt the economy.
• 😡 Many young Chinese feel disillusioned due to social pressure, work stress, and economic struggles, choosing to 'lie flat' and reject societal expectations.
• 🚨 The Chinese government's crackdown on industries like private education, tech, and real estate has led to significant job losses, fueling youth dissatisfaction.
• 🕒 The '996' work culture (9 AM to 9 PM, 6 days a week) is overwhelming for young workers, contributing to the movement's rise as they seek a better work-life balance.
• 📊 Youth unemployment in China hit a record 21.3% in 2023, with the government ceasing to publish these statistics, avoiding addressing the growing crisis.
• 🏠 Soaring housing costs and societal expectations around homeownership further frustrate young people, as owning a home is increasingly out of reach for many.
• 👵 China's aging population presents a looming crisis, with the demographic imbalance exacerbated by the effects of the now-abolished one-child policy.
• 🎓 Increasing numbers of college graduates (projected to reach 11.8 million by 2024) face a shrinking job market, heightening competition for employment.
• 📉 China's economic slowdown and deflation, driven by reduced consumer demand and lower worker productivity, are compounded by the growing youth discontent.
• 🚶 Movements like 'Let it Rot' and 'Lying Flat' are not just social issues, but are also leading to a decline in worker productivity and economic growth in China.

Q & A

What is the 'Let It Rot' movement in China?

The 'Let It Rot' movement, or 'bailan,' is a quiet form of protest by young people in China who feel disillusioned with societal expectations. They are opting out of intense work culture and choosing to live a less ambitious, more relaxed life, which is worrying the Chinese government.

Why are young people in China unhappy, leading to the 'Let It Rot' movement?

Young people in China are unhappy due to a combination of factors, including high work pressure, unemployment, societal expectations, unaffordable housing, and a general sense of disillusionment with the future.

How is the Chinese government responding to the 'Let It Rot' movement?

The Chinese government is concerned about the 'Let It Rot' movement because of its potential economic impact. President Xi Jinping has tried to address the youth, urging them to abandon this mindset and continue contributing to society.

How did the Chinese government's crackdown on the private tutoring industry contribute to youth dissatisfaction?

In 2021, the Chinese government severely restricted the private tutoring industry, which resulted in massive job losses. This move affected millions of young people and contributed to their growing frustration with the lack of economic stability and job opportunities.

What is the 'lying flat' movement, and how does it relate to the 'Let It Rot' movement?

The 'lying flat' movement, or 'tangping,' emerged before the 'Let It Rot' movement. It involves young people rejecting the relentless hustle culture and instead embracing a more relaxed lifestyle. Both movements reflect disillusionment with societal pressures and a desire to escape the demands of traditional success.

What is the significance of China's 996 work culture?

The 996 work culture refers to working from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., six days a week, which is common in China. It is a symbol of the intense work ethic and pressure that many young people are now rejecting through movements like 'Let It Rot.'

How has youth unemployment impacted the 'Let It Rot' movement?

Youth unemployment in China reached a staggering 21.3% in 2023. The lack of job opportunities has fueled the 'Let It Rot' movement, as many young people feel there is no point in striving for success when there are so few opportunities available.

What long-term effects could the 'Let It Rot' movement have on China's economy?

The 'Let It Rot' movement could have serious long-term effects on China's economy, including reduced worker productivity, lower consumer spending, and decreased business output, all of which contribute to a downward economic spiral.

How did China's one-child policy contribute to the current youth challenges?

China's one-child policy, implemented in 1980, has led to an aging population and a shrinking workforce. This demographic imbalance creates additional pressure on young people to support the older generation, further exacerbating their dissatisfaction and reluctance to follow traditional life paths.

What role does China's housing market play in the disillusionment of its youth?

The high cost of housing in China, especially in major cities, makes homeownership nearly impossible for most young people. This financial burden adds to their frustration and plays a significant role in movements like 'Let It Rot,' where they reject societal expectations such as buying a home.