Hong Kong, U.S. and China.

The Lotus Symbolizes Wisdom and Peaceful Resolution of Conflict.

When the people of the USA, China and Hong Kong woke up on Thursday last week they had heard the news about the recent law created by US Congress and signed into law by US President Donald Trump.

I have mixed feelings about this law and I am unsure if it was wise. I think that many people around the world may feel some solidarity for the people of Hong King and their protests with their government. I think that all feel that peaceful protest is a good thing for democratic countries. I think it’s fine for individuals to voice their opinions strongly and support one side or the other. This is an essential part of the discussion of ideas. We agree or disagree and discus the merits of our position.

However I think that governments must behave or act differently. I don’t think there is much to be gained in a constructive sense from the USA passing laws which seek to govern another country. In fact I think it can be counter productive. But before you get mad at me please hear me out.

I think that governments which seek to influence each other should speak clearly about where they stand on human rights in general, but they should refrain from criticizing each other publicly in all but the most extenuating circumstances. I feel this way because I think we must always allow governments time to change their policies publicly themselves. When a strong country like USA or Russia or China criticizes another country for the way they handle civil unrest they actually may make the situation worse because now as in the case here, China cannot change its policies without appearing weak or as if they are kowtowing to the USA.

Governments must always remember that a government always wants to appear strong and independent even if they are being pressured in private to change the way they govern. Public pressure will frequently take away the option to be lenient and change policies, and instead lead to an intensification of the very policies which you sought to change. I know that people are critical of this type as activity as playing politics, but that is exactly the arena in which governments interact.

I think the USA is most effective when they speak strongly and unequivocally about their support for one global standard for human rights. But their severe criticism of a government policy is delivered privately through diplomatic channels, which are developed overtime, so the message is delivered clearly with a incentive. The USA has successfully influenced countries in the past in this manner. And while private diplomacy robs politicians of their chance to criticize others in order to elevate themselves, diplomats have known for years that this is the best way to alleviate the suffering of oppressed populations. A quiet carrot and stick technique is very effective. But you must be willing to privately deliver either one.

I pray for the people of Hong Kong, these violent protests are costly in terms of shattered lives and the loss of life. I hope that wise leaders in that country and in the countries which can influence the situation use private diplomacy to resolve the situation not public posturing, which can further inflame the situation.

✍️ By Shortsegments.

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