The Chinese government came out swinging aganst what they termed “Western media bias” which has depicted riots in Tibet as being caused by China and ignores the violent behavior of Tibetan protestors. Many Chinese bloggers are furious at the refusal of the Western media to discuss what they term to be widespread violence and killing on the part of Tibetan demonstrators. For example, Chinese authorities claim BBC carried a picture with the caption: “there is heavy military presence in Lhasa” even though the picture showed a Chinese ambulance. American Fox News was charged with publishing a photo with the caption: “Chinese toops parade handcuffed Tibetan prisoners in trucks” although the photo was that of a policeman from India dragging a man away. There are also charges of Western media showing photos of Nepalese police in riots with Tibetans but captions claim Chinese police are engaged in the activity.
There is undoubtedly some truth in the Chinese complaints about bias. There is no question most people in the West have been furious at the heavy handed Chinese government’s policies toward any form of dissidence. Given that history, it is not shocking Western media outlets would jump at the chance to depict China in an unfavorable light. One solution is for China to grant freedom to Western media and to allow dissidents to openly express their views. Such an approach would begin to dissipate the issue of bias.
Australian PM Urges Chinese Restraint In Tibet
Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd urged the Chinese government to show restraint in dealing with Tibetan protestors who have openly expressed anger at the Chinese occupation of their land. At least 80 are dead and hundreds wounded as a result of the demonstrations. “These most recent developments in Tibet are disturbing and from my point of view, I would call upon the Chnese authorities to exercise restraint.” He emphasized Australia “has always recognized from the beginning China’s sovereignty over Tibet.” He admitted “on human rights questions we have differences with the government in Beijing.” But, the prime minister made clear Australia would not support any efforts to boycott the upcoming Olympic Games in China.
Bob Brown, head of Australia’s Green party, expressed shock at failure of his government to take a stronger stand against what is happening in Tibet. “I can’t believe this prime minister has been so effectively silent except to call for restraint, whatever that is.” Brown noted Kevin Rudd had called for sanctions against Burma when its monks had protested.
The reality of the current world is that China is a powerful nation and will not accept advice about its internal affairs from outside sources. The Chinese people are reacting to years of Western oppression and hostlity. This does not excuse the horrible behavior of China in Tibet, it only points out the reality there is little to be done about the situation in Tibet.
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Posted in Asia, China, Human Rights, Military, Multicultural, Peace, Politics, Social Justice, War, World News
Tagged China, Monks beaten, Rudd comment, Tibet