PLATFORM : Evolving Democracy

Tian An Men was a democratic movement. The new democratic tide started from the Democracy Wall period of 1979; at that time it was only in the education and awareness stage. . . But only 10 years later, in 1989, nearly everyone acknowledged that more democracy was needed. That is progress . . . .

Confucianism creates an undemocratic society based on obedience, but the system is only superficially stable. If people cannot express ideas, vent dissatisfaction, then you have a basically unstable system that cannot correct itself. Democracy is geared to involve more people, it is suited to human nature.

The one thing we don’t need is another dynasty. Democracy is a path; it is not based on grabbing power, but must develop gradually. Even people from the Chinese Communist Party will provide key support; we have to coexist with different ideas. The actual structure of the system may not resemble the structure of a Western democracy, but the underlying principles will be the same . . . .

If the Chinese government makes a big improvement in the human-rights situation, then continuing (most-favored-nation status) is appropriate. But if big improvement is not made, MFN should not be continued. In all likelihood, if the communists get MFN in hand, they will turn around and start to arrest the activists, their so-called enemies. Under these circumstances, China should not get MFN, even though denial will cause hardship for the Chinese people. If the people are not guaranteed basic human rights, then the loss is even greater . . . .