Major Countries Lift Outdoor No-Mask Mandates... Public Transportation Restrictions Also Gradually Removed

[Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Cho Hyun-ui] As the government is considering lifting the outdoor mask mandate next month, most countries overseas do not enforce mask-wearing outdoors. It is understood that many have already lifted indoor mask mandates or require masks only in certain environments such as indoors or on public transportation.

According to foreign media reports compiled on the 21st, the UK, Japan, and the Netherlands no longer mandate masks both indoors and outdoors. The UK, which was the first country in the world to start COVID-19 vaccinations, removed the mask mandate at the end of January and fully lifted all quarantine measures by the end of February. The Netherlands also lifted the mandate on public transportation last month.

Singapore and New Zealand have lifted the outdoor mask mandate but maintain it indoors. Italy will also remove indoor mask requirements starting next month. Local Italian media reported, "The government is expected to effectively eliminate mask mandates in all environments by mid-June."

In the United States, Germany, and France, masks are only required on public transportation. However, in the US, the eastern city of Philadelphia has reintroduced indoor mask mandates, and institutions such as Columbia University in New York, Georgetown University, and Hawaii public schools have decided to reinstate mask-wearing. Additionally, there is confusion as the Biden administration and state governments have made differing decisions regarding mask use on public transportation.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced on the 20th (local time) that due to the recent increase in new COVID-19 cases, the mask mandate on public transportation will continue for the time being. Governor Hochul stated, "Two highly contagious COVID-19 variants are the main reasons for the recent rise in cases," and added, "I am skeptical of claims that we can say goodbye to masks in all situations, including public transportation." However, she also said, "There will come a time when we can take off masks."

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