ABSTRACT
This chapter is about the Chinese government’s utilization of digital technology in managing the COVID-19 pandemic. I will introduce three main forms of technology used to keep residents’ health records, travel history data, and other important information relevant to the COVID-19 virus – the Health QR Code, the Travel Card, and the Venue QR Code. With the Health QR code, people can access major social media apps to see the health status of anyone. The Travel Card is an electronic card that discloses the recent travel history of an individual, also accessible through major social media apps in China. Every public place in China can apply for its own Venue QR Code for its visitors to scan, which will automatically record their information for future investigation if positive medical cases were found in the place. As a Chinese resident who witnessed several lockdowns and quarantines, I will share firsthand experience of mass testing and travel experience under the strict policy carried out by the government. More importantly, I will explore the critical role digital technology plays in public management during pandemics. Lastly, I will provide personal insights about the special Chinese COVID-19 Policy and how it is affecting my and other people’s daily lives.
