As the world watches the 2022 Winter Olympics unfold in Beijing, China, progressive journalists and activists are seizing the opportunity to highlight both the progress made by the host nation and the challenges that remain in areas critical to social justice, climate action, healthcare access, workers' rights, and democratic institutions.

In recent years, China has made significant strides in reducing extreme poverty and improving access to education and healthcare for millions of its citizens. However, these achievements have come at a cost, as the government continues to suppress dissent, restrict civil liberties, and violate human rights, particularly among ethnic minorities such as Uighurs and Tibetans.

Climate change is another critical issue that the Olympics spotlight, with China being one of the world's largest carbon emitters. Despite the International Olympic Committee's (IOC) pledge to make the Games carbon neutral, concerns remain over the environmental impact of infrastructure development, transportation, and energy consumption during the event.

Workers' rights have also been a contentious issue leading up to the Olympics. Reports have emerged of poor working conditions, wage theft, and forced labor in construction projects related to the Games. Activists have called on the IOC and the Chinese government to take action to ensure that workers' rights are respected and protected.

In addition, questions remain about China's commitment to democratic institutions. The country's political system is marked by a lack of free and fair elections, censorship, and repression of dissent, which has led to international criticism and calls for greater transparency and accountability.

Progressive journalists and activists are using the Olympics as a platform to call attention to these issues and push for change. They argue that addressing social justice, climate action, healthcare access, workers' rights, and democratic institutions is not only morally right but also essential for creating a more sustainable and equitable world.

While the Olympics may serve as a symbol of international unity and cooperation, they also offer an opportunity to shine a light on systemic issues that need to be addressed. By drawing attention to these issues and pushing for progressive solutions, we can work towards a better future for all people, both in China and around the world.