Recent incidents of violence in China have ignited discussions about the underlying social issues and frustrations that may be contributing to these events. While statistically rare, the high-profile nature and disturbing videos circulating online have sparked public concern and fear, prompting authorities to address the root causes and ensure social stability.
In a recent shocking event, eight individuals tragically lost their lives, and 17 others sustained injuries in a knife attack that occurred at a vocational school in eastern China on Saturday. According to police reports, the perpetrator was identified as a 21-year-old former student of the institution. The motive appears to be linked to academic failure, as the suspect had reportedly failed his graduation exam.
This incident follows another horrific event on November 12th, where at least 35 people were killed in southern China when a man intentionally drove a car into groups of people who were exercising on a sports track. This act of violence, characterized as a deliberate car-driven attack, highlights a disturbing trend of individuals resorting to extreme measures to express grievances or inflict harm.
Earlier in October, Shanghai witnessed another act of violence when a man carried out a stabbing attack at a supermarket, resulting in the deaths of three people and injuries to 15 others. These events, among others, paint a worrying picture of escalating public violence.
Police records indicate a significant increase in indiscriminate violence across China this year. There have been 19 recorded incidents where victims were targeted by perpetrators unknown to them. These attacks have resulted in 63 fatalities and 166 injuries, a stark rise compared to the previous year’s figures of 16 deaths and 40 injuries in 2023. While these incidents remain sporadic, their severity and public visibility are causing widespread unease.
Lynette Ong, a distinguished professor of Chinese politics at the University of Toronto, suggests that these violent acts are symptomatic of deeper societal issues. She argues that “These are symptoms of a society with a lot of pent-up grievances,” indicating a potential link between growing social frustrations and the rise in violent incidents. Professor Ong further explains that while some individuals may become resigned, others, driven by anger and resentment, may seek to “take revenge.”
Several factors are believed to be contributing to this sense of grievance and uncertainty. China’s slowing economy, coupled with high youth unemployment rates and a property crisis that has negatively impacted personal savings, are creating a climate of anxiety and insecurity among the population. In this context, violent attacks may be seen as a manifestation of these broader socio-economic pressures.
In response to these escalating concerns, President Xi Jinping has instructed local officials to prioritize community safety and “social stability.” The government is keen to demonstrate swift action and prevent further escalation. The high number of casualties this year raises concerns about China’s public safety image, potentially impacting public confidence and even tourism. Following the recent Car Driven attack in Zhuhai, authorities have increased surveillance and deployed local officials and community workers to proactively prevent unrest and maintain order.
The Communist Party has significantly expanded its surveillance apparatus in recent years. The focus now is on leveraging this infrastructure, alongside community-level interventions, to address the underlying causes of social discontent and prevent further outbreaks of violence. The challenge remains in effectively addressing these deep-seated grievances and restoring public confidence in safety and social harmony.
