"No Longer Dreaming of Full Lifting"…Europe Considering Christmas Lockdown Easing

[Asia Economy Reporter Naju-seok] As European countries, which had been setting new records for daily new COVID-19 cases earlier this month, see improvements in the situation, they are pushing for 'Christmas lockdown easing.' However, to prevent resurgence, European countries plan to shift to a flexible response through phased lockdown easing.

Christmas lights and other decorations installed in the cityscape of Paris, France. [Image source=EPA Yonhap News]

According to foreign media on the 22nd (local time), European countries are considering easing lockdowns ahead of Christmas next month. This is due to the slowdown in the increase of confirmed cases following lockdown measures implemented since the end of last month, as well as the consideration of the rare opportunity for families to gather.

However, unlike before, this lockdown easing is expected to be gradual. This is because it was judged that the rapid lifting of restrictions such as social distancing after the pandemic subsided in the spring led to the crisis this fall.

Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, stated, "To avoid the risk of another pandemic wave, lockdown easing must proceed in a gradual and coordinated manner."

Differences in this approach are evident in various places. For example, France, where lockdown measures end in early next month, does not use the term 'lockdown easing' but refers to it as a three-step lockdown relaxation.

According to the French government's plan, on the 1st of next month, non-essential stores will be allowed to open under strict quarantine rules. Then, restrictions on movement will be implemented ahead of Christmas. However, this may change depending on the trend of COVID-19 cases and hospital conditions.

The French government stated, "It is clear that the lockdown will continue and movement restrictions will also persist." In this regard, French President Emmanuel Macron plans to deliver a national address on the 24th.

Italy is also considering opening stores about ten days before Christmas and allowing family-sized gatherings.

Germany is reviewing measures to strengthen quarantine levels until Christmas. However, even if lockdown measures are eased, drinking alcohol or setting off fireworks in public places will be prohibited.

It is predicted that pubs and similar establishments will find it difficult to operate normally, as there have been concerns that COVID-19 spread through such venues.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.