In dealing with China, mistrust is the better part of diplomacy

Article Abstract:

The international community has been very reluctant to challenge China openly about its human rights record. Western leaders prefer to use quiet diplomacy with China, rather than being confrontational, but there is no evidence that this approach works. Indeed, it seems that China only really responds to direct threats. China has convinced the outside world that confrontation is seen as a threat to its sovereignty, and human rights violations in China have therefore been allowed to take place without censure. This has not been the case in other countries, such as Nigeria.

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We mustn't be scared of angering this visitor, if only for our own self-respect

Article Abstract:

The UK government seems to be trying to ensure that Chinese President Jiang Zemin, who is on a four-day state visit, will not be offended in any way. The sensitive issue of human rights will be avoided, and politicians will take care not to make any unscripted comments on any other matters. It can be argued that this is a misguided approach. Putting strong pressure on China may prove counter-productive, but it is also wrong to collude with China. Failing to raise the issue of human rights merely reduces the UK's national self-respect.

United Kingdom, International politics, Political activity, Jiang Zemin

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Taking credit for failure in China

Article Abstract:

The UK government is wrong to give the impression that it has played a significant role in persuading China to improve its human rights record, particularly in relation to the release of political prisoners. The UK has taken a moral stance against China, but has failed to realize that this is insufficient, as China will only react to direct pressure. There are still indications that China holds the international community's views on its human rights record in contempt.

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