We've had impassioned discussions about Tibet this year. But the controversies surrounding China has not just been about Tibet - they have also been about Africa. In anticipation of a series of posts on Africa, I thought I would put a few feelers out to see if people on this forum would be interested in discussing the topic, and if so, where people initially stand. … [Read more...] about The Partnership between Africa and China – a Force for Good or Evil?
human rights
How Can China Learn from India?
Recently we have had several good, vigorous debates on the proper role of human rights in the International Order - including in China in particular. In a recent thread, I even got to argue in the comments that the Chinese government is right to focus on issues of general human welfare (as embodied by its calls for a "peaceful and harmonious" society) rather than ideologies … [Read more...] about How Can China Learn from India?
On Human Rights, Intervention and the International Order
The idea of “human rights” is neither new nor did it suddenly sprang into existence after WWII. It has arguably existed since the dawn of human existence, as portrayed in human stories and mythologies and exemplified throughout human history in man’s struggle against the arbitrariness of a higher power, be they of gods, fortune, nature or tyrants. In Chinese society, such … [Read more...] about On Human Rights, Intervention and the International Order
Can democracy be the solution to Malaysia's ethnic problems?
In a previous discussion on Malaysia's ethnic politics, I was surprised (and dismayed) to sense the depth of dejection some ethnic Chinese in Malaysia may feel toward the political situation in Malaysia. There however may be hope. … [Read more...] about Can democracy be the solution to Malaysia's ethnic problems?
Tony Blair's New Op Ed on China in the Wall Street Journal
I thought I'd bring to people's attention to a recent Op Ed from Tony Blair in the Wall Street Journal on the Rise of China and the Olympics. I think the piece is interesting as a genuine attempt by a Western Leader (or at least a former Western leader) to understand - in good faith - the Rise of China and the Olympics. … [Read more...] about Tony Blair's New Op Ed on China in the Wall Street Journal