China’s Lunar New Year Travel Frenzy Exposes Economic Struggles and Government Blind Spots

Every year, China's Lunar New Year sees the world's largest human migration, known as 'chunyun.' This year, a staggering 9.5 billion trips are expected as millions return home to celebrate. While this vast movement might appear festive on the surface, beneath lies a portrait of economic strain that Beijing downplays but that should raise alarms in Washington.Why Are Millions Enduring Grueling Journeys?Liu Zhiquan’s story is emblematic of millions facing tough choices: he opted for a grueling 30-hour train ride instead of a nine-hour high-speed trip simply because it was more affordable. Liu works in construction far from his hometown, an...