CIVIL SOCIETY IS THE OPPOSITE OF WHAT THEY HAVE THOUGH:

The US formula for China (Larry Wortzel and Devin T Stewart, 11/09/05, Asia Times)

Semantics aside, why does the US hope to promote at least the constituent elements of civil society, including freedom of speech, freedom of association, transparency and accountability?

The spread of civil society in East Asia over the past several years has coincided with stability in the security and economic realms. In line with this trend, greater transparency would help reduce the fear of China posing a near-term military threat, ensure that China contributes to the health of the global economy and clarify its long-term ambitions. [...]

Related to transparency, greater Chinese freedom of speech would reduce suspicion of China's intentions among its neighbors and would better inform Chinese citizens of political developments inside East Asian countries. Of all people, the Chinese should know that the wisdom of a thousand flowers blooming is superior to that of a trickle of information. Plurality and open debate leads to healthier markets as well as sounder public policy. Even such problems as the secretive banking system and corporate governance would be addressed by more transparency and the rule of law.

Freedom of association and other labor rights help level the playing field among trading partners and reduce the possibility that lower standards will be exploited - known as "social dumping" - at the expense of the environment and welfare of workers in both trading nations. When the citizens of trading partners possess the right of collective bargaining and the right to join labor unions, it protects the welfare of workers as well as the health of the trading system, as claims for protectionism are deflated.

Economic accountability and transparency would reduce the threat of economic surprises that could create shocks to the global economic system. When the policymaking process is transparent, policymakers have a greater incentive to make good policies, and this virtuous cycle contributes to greater confidence in a government's ability to manage its economy.

A China that is strong and prosperous would be more harmonious with the US-led system and its institutions if Chinese civil society were able to flourish.

All these things would require is that the Communist Party abandon its grip on power--is there any sign that it's willing to?

Posted by Orrin Judd at November 9, 2005 12:19 AM