Beijing
China will no longer classify as state secrets the death tolls from natural disasters, the government announced this week. “Declassification of these figures and materials is conducive to boosting our disaster prevention and relief work,” said Shen Yongshe of the National Administration of State Secrets. In the past, Chinese news organizations could not report on deaths while a natural disaster such as an earthquake or flood was unfolding. Instead, they had to wait until the government released an official body count, which often understated casualties. The new policy does not cover industrial accidents such as mine cave-ins.
The Week
Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.
Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
-
The struggles of Aston MartinIn the Spotlight The car manufacturer, famous for its association with the James Bond franchise, is ‘running out of road’
-
The end of ‘golden ticket’ asylum rightsThe Explainer Refugees lose automatic right to bring family over and must ‘earn’ indefinite right to remain
-
Grecotel Luxme Dama Dama: Greek luxury with a breezy beach vibeThe Week Recommends Rhodes is reimagined in this refined and relaxed resort
