Chinese authorities have come under scrutiny for a video discouraging women from applying makeup on trains, labelling it as "uncivilized behaviour." The video, which was initially released in July, has sparked controversy and allegations of sexism.
The clip gained attention on social media platforms, with citizens accusing Chinese authorities of limiting women's freedom of expression, including the simple act of applying makeup or smiling while commuting on trains. Some users considered the video to be sexist.
Released by China's railway corporation on Douyin, a counterpart to TikTok, the video received backlash and accusations of sexism. It later went viral on Weibo, the Chinese equivalent of Twitter.
In the video, a woman on a high-speed train is seen applying lotion and makeup. A man seated next to her responds by applying makeup to his face and addressing her as "beauty." The woman apologizes and helps him remove the makeup.
The video features notices and banners with messages like "Respect others" and "Respect public spaces." One headline in the Chinese state-owned newspaper, Global Times, reads, "Don’t let your uncivilized behaviour affect the beauty that the train ride deserves."
The video was titled "A makeup blogger’s beautiful trip" and caused such controversy that it was eventually taken down by authorities.
Chinese railway authorities have released several films since July addressing various "anti-social" behaviours by passengers, such as occupying each other's seats, littering, talking loudly, and playing loud music on high-speed trains.
Criticism of the video has extended beyond Chinese citizens, with many Weibo users expressing dissatisfaction with its focus on gender and the characterization of applying makeup as "uncivilized behaviour."
Some argue that applying makeup on trains should not be labelled as uncivilized behaviour or something that negatively impacts others.
While Chinese citizens have been calling for more gender equality, it's important to note that there is currently no prohibition against applying makeup on trains.
A railway employee clarified that passengers can continue applying makeup on trains as long as they don't disrupt others. The controversy surrounding the viral video was unintended, and the authorities did not intend to insult or disrespect women.
The video and related hashtags have garnered millions of views and tens of thousands of comments, with many viewers finding it offensive.
Chinese officials defended the video, asking people not to "overinterpret" it. They explained that the video aimed to promote civilized commuting and consideration for other passengers rather than outright banning makeup applications on trains.
Similar controversies have occurred in other parts of the world, such as Japan in 2016, when a video discouraged women from applying makeup during their commute, sparking criticism and discussions on gender equality. The video's creators defended it as an attempt to educate passengers on rules and etiquette while travelling on trains.
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