China could display global leadership by being pragmatic, confident and relaxed about democracy for Hong Kong and Taiwan
YaleGlobal Online
Date: September 26, 2019
By: Humphrey Hawksley
China confronts a dilemma on governance for Hong Kong. “One conclusion being mooted through think tanks in Beijing and Taipei is that the most pragmatic way forward is for China to be confident and counterintuitive enough to grant Hong Kong full democracy,” explains Asia specialist Humphrey Hawksley. “One day of protest attracted as many as 2 million people. When more than a quarter of the population simultaneously takes to the streets, any ruler, dictator or democrat, should know they have a serious problem.” Hong Kong is not alone with expectations, and China’s response has implications for Taiwan and areas with discontent. China could take the lead and avoid violence, respecting the wishes of citizens, granting autonomy on some matters and stepping forward as a genuine protector for its neighbors. China is determined to display global leadership for a world in transition, and dissent is inevitable. Hong Kong would be a good place for launching a strategy that draws appreciation. – YaleGlobal
Beijing, you have a problem: Nearly quarter of Hong Kong's population took to the streets in August to protest a Chinese extradition bill; some demonstrators desecrate the Chinese flag
TAIPEI: The ongoing protests in Hong Kong offer insights into China’s flexibility of governance and its patient ability to challenge the current world order. Much has and will be written on this issue. But for an answer on how governance may unfold, consider Taiwan, which for 70 years has stood in the storm’s eye of a hostile and suspicious China.
One conclusion being mooted through think tanks in Beijing and Taipei is that the most pragmatic way forward is for China to be confident and counterintuitive enough to grant Hong Kong full democracy. Such a move would take the wind out of protesters’ sails, extinguish flames of discontent and enhance China’s global standing while being no threat to its own system of governance. The identities of the think tanks and academics involved remain confidential, but this is their argument.
Hong Kong and Taiwan are both developed economies with highly-educated Chinese populations. Taiwan is a democracy. Hong Kong is not. Sovereign control lies with Beijing, although under the “one country, two systems” agreement between Britain, its freedoms, capitalist system and way of life are meant to continue until 2047. [FULL STORY]
