Beijing is pumping more than half a trillion dollars into the Chinese economy in order to stave off unrest. It has good reason to worry. ( Photo: James Whitlow Delano / Redux for Newsweek/Pedestrians at Beijing’s bell tower on a recent morning)

People who knew Tang Yongming say they never imagined he could do such a horrible, senseless thing. A few minutes after noon on Aug. 9, just 12 hours after the start of the 2008 Olympics, Tang, 47, savagely knifed a visiting American couple inside Beijing’s 13th-century Drum Tower. Then he jumped 130 feet to his death from the ancient landmark’s western balcony. Minneapolis businessman Todd Bachman—father-in-law of U.S. men’s indoor-volleyball coach Hugh McCutcheon—died of stab wounds. Bachman’s wife, Barbara, survived, despite life-threatening injuries. Their guide, a young Chinese woman, was also hurt, although less seriously. Tang remains an enigma. “There was nothing abnormal about him, absolutely nothing,” says Wang Yongxian, a prim, businesslike community worker who tried to help Tang find a new job five years ago, after his previous employer let him go. Wang’s colleague Xu Guofang agrees: “He wasn’t just ‘relatively’ ordinary. He was simply ordinary. Period.”

Click here to continue the reading on NEWSWEEK website.

On November 9, the Fourth Interethnic/Interfaith Leadership Conference held at Harvard University concluded on a note of unity and renewed commitment to advancing human rights, democracy, and the rule of law for all the peoples of China. Unanimous declaration pledging unity and mutual respect in a common struggle for democracy is the first of its kind in Chinese History.

Declaration of “The Fourth Interethnic/Interfaith Leadership Conference”

We, the participantes of the fourth “Interethnic/Interfaith Leadership Conference”, sponsored by Initiatives for China was held at Harvard University in Boston-Cambridge, USA from November 6 to November 9, 2008, do constitute ethnic leaders from China and around the world, prominent figures, scholars, and representatives of various organizations attended the conference. They come from ethnic groups including Manchurian, Uyghur, Tibetan, Mongolian, native Taiwanese, people from Hong Kong, people from Macau, Han Chinese, and other nationalities; Falun Gong; and Christian House Church Movement.

We reached consensus at the end of the meeting on the following four points:

1. We are committed to following the principle of cooperation, respect for the differences between ethnic groups, embracing human rights as a universal value, uniting as one for the realization of the rule of law and a democratic political system.

2. We are committed to following the principle of “pursuing peaceful, rational, and non-violent means,” and overcoming evil with good.

3. We are committed to mutual respect and concern for each others’ human rights, and to offer necessary assistance.

4. We are committed to maintaining close communication, exercising tolerance and forgiveness toward each other, eliminating hatred and misunderstanding, pursuing truth, accomplishing reconciliation and loving one another.

We uanimously agree to the above points and do declare that these points shall become the guideline of cooperation among ethnic groups in the future.To show good faith and commitment to these principles, we shall continue this dialogue and the “Interethnic/Interfaith Leadership Conference” will be held again in the future to promote ethnic reconciliation. Dedication to cooperation and unity shall be promoted among all ethnic groups, especially among the young people of these groups.

Drafted by INITIATIVES FOR CHINA

11/09/2008

第四届“族群青年领袖研习营”大会宣言

由“公民力量”举办的第四届“族群青年领袖研习营”于2008年11月6日至9日，在美国波士顿—剑桥的哈佛大学举行。世界各地和中国的族群领袖、国际政界、学界和人权机构的有影响力人士发来祝贺鼓励信，或出席会议发表演讲或讲课。与会人员分别来自满洲族、维吾尔族、藏族、蒙古族、台湾原住民、香港人、澳门人、汉族、其它民族，法轮功运动，和基督教家庭教会运动。
在会议结束时，与会者达成如下四点共识：

第一、各族群共同持守这样的合作原则：尊重民族特性之间的差异，接受人权普世价值，联合起来致力于宪政和民主的实现。
第二、各族群共同坚守和平理性非暴力的抗争原则，以善胜恶。
第三、各族群相互尊敬，相互关怀彼此的人权状况，并提供必要的支持和帮助。
第四、各族群保持密切的联系和沟通，相互宽容，消除仇恨和误解，追求真理和真相，实现和解与彼此相爱。

以上四点共识，经过以上各族群的与会者的一致同意，从即日起成为共同努力争取人权、宪政和民主的合作原则。为了体现我们的共识，在未来将继续举办促进族群和解合作的活动，并在各个族群中，尤其是在年轻的一代人当中，积极推广这些共识。
“公民力量”起草 2008年11月9日

Click here to download the document in PDF

11-10-2008
Issued by Initiatives for China
Contact: Jim Geheran
Tel: 202-290-1423
initiatives4china@gmail.com
www.initiativesforchina.org

On November 9, the Fourth Interethnic/Interfaith Leadership Conference held at Harvard University concluded on a note of unity and renewed commitment to advancing human rights, democracy, and the rule of law for all the peoples of China. The conference, funded in part, by the National Endowment for Democracy, and sponsored by the Boston-based democracy group, Initiatives for China, was attended by more than sixty delegates from virtually every ethnic and religious group under the rule of the Chinese government. Under the theme of “respecting differences, embracing universal values, united for a democratic future for all,” the conference provided a forum for finding common ground in the pursuit of human rights and democratic reforms in the governance of peoples under the rule of the Chinese Communist Party. The conference concluded with writing a Joint Declaration of Unity, which represents the first time in history that a compact was drafted and agreed upon by people from so many diverse ethnic groups from inside China.

The last day of the conference was devoted to discussing the principles and strategies of non-violent action in the pursuit of human rights and constitutional reform. Hardy Merriman, a trainer and educator of non-violence, presented case studies that led to political and social reform. These studies included Serbia, Hungary, and the Czech Republic. The presentation was followed by a lively discussion of how these nonviolent strategies might be applied to advancing democracy and human rights in China.

In a demonstration of unity of purpose and collective action, the conference participants unanimously approved a joint declaration promising mutual respect and unity in the pursuit of common goals. The participants also drafted a letter to President-Elect Obama. The letter recognizes the hope that the new administration will restore the United States to its historical position as the champion of human rights and democracy around the world. With this in mind, the letter specifically calls for the United States to make human rights and democratic reform an ongoing, consistent, and integral part of its overall, political, economic, and cultural engagement with China.

Both the letter and the declaration will be posted on this website, pending finalization and approval.

11-09-2008
Issued by Initiatives for China
Contact: Jim Geheran
Tel: 202-290-1423
initiatives4china@gmail.com  www.initiativesforchina.org

November 8  The second day of the Interethnic/Interfaith Leadership Conference held at Harvard University, documented a chilling pattern of cultural repression in many of the lands under the Chinese government’s control. In a panel moderated by Michael A. Grodin, Professor of Bioethics and Human Rights at Boston University, Tibetan leaders outlined the 50 year long campaign by the Chinese government to marginalize the Tibetan people through economic and political isolation in their own land. At the same time the Chinese communist party has mounted a national and international media campaign to label the Tibetans as terrorists and ingrates who do not appreciate the huge economic investments the Chinese government has made in their territory. The Tibetan panelists were quick to point out the economic investments almost exclusively benefited the Han Chinese who resettled in the area at the urging of the Chinese government. Despite numerous efforts by the Tibetan people to open a dialogue with the Chinese government and the Chinese government’s public agreement to have such dialogues, virtually no negotiations have taken place. The intransigence and indifference of the Chinese government and its failure to negotiate in good faith has been a source of frustration to the Tibetan people.

While the repression of the Tibetan peoples and culture has received a lot of attention in the western media, most people are not aware that the plight of the Tibetan people is just one aspect of what can only be described as a systematic effort of the Chinese government to completely subjugate, if not obliterate, cultures in lands that they control and which have have thrived for thousands of years. Panelists representing the Uyghurs of East Turkestan and the peoples of Southern Mongolia, documented in chilling detail the repression of the Chinese government in the practice of their language and religion. And, as with the Tibetan peoples, the Chinese government employs its vast media control both nationally and internationally to manipulate public opinion of these peoples as terrorists and inferior to the Han Chinese culture.

At the end of the day, a sobering picture developed of an emerging superpower who uses its vast economic might and security forces to control and marginalize vibrant and peaceful cultures. At the same time, the Chinese government uses sophisticated media control to portray its victims as terrorists and itself as the keeper of a harmonious society. In fact, one of the big concerns of the conference participants was the Chinese government’s ability to manipulate national and international opinion through is vast media networks. One conference participant observed that over 95% of the Chinese language media in the U.S. is either directly or indirect controlled by the Chinese government.

Other panels detailed a similar pattern of control and repression with regards to the practice of religion. In particular a panel moderated by Ms. Jenny McCloy of the China Aid Association, told of the repression and control of the house church Christians. “The House Church Christians face a dilemma of suffering repression for not registering with the state or, by registering, giving up their freedom to worship according to their faith,” commented Ms. McCloy. She pointedly told of the situation with “Pastor Bike” who ministered to the poor, but was beaten, detained, and his sons forced to leave Beijing.

At the end of the day the conference participants agreed to issue a statement to President Elect Obama that expresses their hopes, concerns and their recommendations for addressing the repression of the Chinese Communist government.

The Fourth Interethnic/InterfaithLeadership Conference held its opening session at Harvard University yesterday with praise and encouragement from world leaders with backgrounds as diverse as the conference itself.

In a statement read by Secretary Thekchen Choeling, the Dalai Lama stated the importance of this conference to furthering the advancement of democratic principles in China. “I am happy to know that this conference will pay special attention to the needs of the people of mainland China for human rights, democracy, and the rule of law, because these values are the foundation of a free and dynamic society. They are also the the source of true peace and stability.”

Taking time from her busy post-election schedule, Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, The Honorable Nancy Pelosi sent her best wishes from her office in Washington, DC. “I commend the leaders of the diverse ethnic, faith-based and activist organizations that have gathered to cultivate an open dialogue and discover common ground,” said Speaker Pelosi. “We look forward to the day when the world’s most populous country can at last be called the world’s largest democracy.”

Other leaders echoed the sentiments of Speaker Pelosi that this conference plays a vital role in advancing the peaceful transition to a democratic China. The former Ambassador to Hungary and distinguished foreign affairs expert, Mark Palmer, called the efforts of the conference to spell out a vision of a tolerant society “as critical” to ensuring a peaceful future for China and the world. Ms. Rebiya Kadeer, the leader of the Uyghur people of East Turkestan called the conference “a valuable forum with which to explore interethnic and inter-religious cooperation in our common struggle for human rights, freedom and democracy”. Congressman Michael E. Capuano from Massachusetts, a longtime supporter of human rights around the world, sent greetings that “I am proud to support Dr. Yang Jianli and those who join him in defense of democracy and human rights. Today’s Interethnic/Interfaith Conference emphasizes that these ideals are universal.”

The keynote speaker for the first day of the conference was Ms. Roberta Bonazzi, Executive Director of the European Foundation for Democracy. In her warm and encouraging speech, Ms. Bonazzi stressed that the values of human rights and democracy are universal. She emphasized that this universality has been codified in the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights, to which all major nations, including China are signatories. Ms. Bonazzi encouraged the participants to continue their struggle to bring peaceful democratic reform to China and expressed her confidence that their efforts will bring democracy to China.

The Conference activities for the day included a stimulating panel discussion of cross strait relationships between Taiwan and Mainland China as well as formal introductions of all the participants, during which each participant introduced themselves, talked of their backgrounds, and of their hopes for the conference.

The day concluded with dinner and an address from Mr. Padraig O’Malley, Professor of International Peace and Reconciliation at the McCormack Graduate School, University of Massachusetts, Boston. Professor O’Malley gave a very entertaining and cogent talk of his experiences with the search for peace and reconciliation in South Africa and Ireland. From his experiences in Ireland and South Africa, Professor O’Malley has learned that tyranny and injustice can be overcome and that the obstacles, while formidable, are not unique and we can learn from past experiences to overcome the current challenges with China.

Under the theme of Respecting Differences, Embracing Universal Values, United for a Democratic Future for All, over 50 representatives from the diverse ethnic and religious groups of China convened on the evening of the November 6 in Boston for the Fourth Interethnic/Interfaith Leadership Conference. The conference is funded in part by the National Endowment for Democracy and sponsored by Initiatives for China, the Boston-based movement for advancing democracy in China through constitutional reform.

Despite the inclement weather, representatives from mainland China, including Tibet and Mongolia made it to Boston in time for a buffet of Chinese cuisine and an evening of informal discussion and renewal of old friendships. The purpose of the conference is to bridge the cultural and political divides between the various ethnic and religious groups of China. “The conference is one of the few forums that brings together so many groups in an framework where dialogue and open discussion can take place,” said Dr.Yang Jianli, the Conference leader and President of Initiatives for China. “Here we will practice and learn how to address and resolve issues within a democratic framework and and an environment of mutual respect.”

Mr. Göran Lindblad, a member of the Swedish Parliament and the European Council of Democracy, addressed the group in an informal after-dinner talk. Mr. Lindblad spoke very clearly of the need for democracy to progress in China not only for the good of the people of China, but for the security and stability of the world. He said that for democracy to take hold, China needs to advance in three interdependent areas: human rights, democratic reform, and the rule of law. He observed that the rule of law was the area where he saw the most immediate promise because business leaders require that for the protection of their investments in the Chinese economy. In order to make further advances, Mr. Lindblad said that China needs consistent engagement by the democracies of the world. This engagement must also include criticism so that China is called to task for their shortcomings. “We must hug, but we also must criticize. Without criticism, there can be no progress,” said Mr. Lindblad.

The Conference formerly opens on November 7th at Harvard University and will conclude on the 9th of November.

Boston, MA- On November 6 through November 9, the Fourth Interethnic/Interfaith Leadership Conference held by Initiatives for China will take place at Harvard University. Dr. Yang Jianli of Initiatives for China continues the tradition of bringing together 60 representatives of various (ethnic, faith based and activist) groups to encourage mutual understanding and build trust. The presentations, workshops and panel discussions will include such speakers as Professor Padriag O’Malley, Dr. Yang Jianli, Göran Lindblad, Chairman of the Swedish Delegation to the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe, Roberta Bonazzi, Executive Director of the European Foundation for Democracy, and many others.

These Interethnic conferences have been the first ever platform for people of different ethnicities and faith to gather without coercion to build confidence and synergy. Han Chinese, Uyghur,Tibetan, Southern Mongolian, Christian House Church Movement, Falun Gong, human rights activists, people from Taiwan, Hong Kong, Macau gather to address legitimate concerns. The conference provides an orderly framework in which to work on differences and cultivate open dialogues to enable the peaceful transitioning toward democracy. Last week, the Dalai Lama said that he no longer values the potential of Chinese government talks. Therefore the need for such inter-ethnic conference and the confidence of the conference host is even greater.

For more information about the conference, please call Linda Mancini, Conference Coordinator, at 617 501-3724 or go to http://www.initiativesforchina.org on the web.

Microsoft, Google and Yahoo have signed a global code of conduct promising to offer better protection for online free speech and against official intrusion.

The Global Network Initiative follows criticism that companies were assisting governments in countries like China to censor the Internet.

The guidelines seek to limit what data should be shared with authorities, in cases where free speech is an issue.

“This is an important first step,” said Mike Posner of Human Rights First.

He told the BBC “What this is is a recognition by all these tech companies, the human rights groups and social investors that there has to be a collective response to this growing problem.

“Companies need to step up to the plate and be more aggressive in challenging unwarranted government interference,” he said.

The initiative states that privacy is “a human right and guarantor of human dignity,” and the agreement commits the companies to try to resist overly broad demands for restrictions on freedom of speech and the privacy of users.

They will also assess the human rights climate in a country before concluding business deals and make sure their employees and partners follow suit.

“These principles are not going to be a silver bullet, but the most important point for me is to provide transparency,” said Danny O’Brien of the Electronic Frontier Foundation.

“We have joined this initiative because we know that a wide range of groups working together can achieve much more than the company acting alone,” said Andrew McLaughlin, Google’s director of global public policy.

‘Valuable roadmap’

The impetus for such an agreement follows years of criticism that a number of businesses, including Google, Yahoo and Microsoft have complicity built what has been dubbed the “Great Firewall of China”.

Skype say they are abiding by Chinese laws over internet use

Google has been accused of complying with Chinese government demands to filter internet searches to eliminate query results regarding topics such as democracy or Tiananmen Square.

Microsoft has come under attack for blocking the blog of a prominent Chinese Media researcher who posted articles critical of a management purge at the Beijing News Daily.

Canadian researchers uncovered that a Skype joint venture in China monitored users’ communications.

And a Chinese reporter Shi Tao was jailed for 10 years after Yahoo China provided his personal information to the Chinese government.

Today Yahoo co-founder and CEO Jerry Yang welcomed the new code of conduct.

“These principles provide a valuable roadmap for companies like Yahoo operating in markets where freedom of expression and privacy are unfairly restricted.

Shi Tao’s jailing sparked a controversy of Yahoo business practices in China

“Yahoo was founded on the belief that promoting access to information can enrich people’s lives and the principles we unveiled today reflect our determination that our actions match our values around the world,” said Mr Yang.

While China has been painted as the worst abuser, Colin Maclay of the Berkman Centre for Internet and Society at Harvard University said there are other countries and governments all over the world at fault.

“The number of states actively seeking to censor online content and access personal information is growing.

“And the means employed - technical, social, legal, political - are increasingly sophisticated, often placing internet and telecommunications companies in difficult positions.”

‘Business case’

The Global Network Initiative was drawn up by the internet companies along with human rights groups, academics and investors.

Adam Kanzer who is the managing director and general counsel at Domini Social Investments said as well as being the right thing to do, it also makes good business sense.

He told BBC News “When you see the industry being caught up in the tactics of various regimes around the world, the business case is very clear. Freedom of expression and privacy is core to their business.

“They depend on a wide open, freely accessible and secure internet. That’s what they are about. If people don’t trust the internet and believe they are secure, then that is counterproductive to their business.”

The plan has yet to receive the support of internet companies in China

The effort is already being seen by some as not going far enough.

“After two years of effort, they have ended up with so little,” said Morton Sklar executive director for the World Organisation for Human Rights USA.

“It is very little more than a broad statement of support for a general principle without any concrete backup mechanism to ensure that the guidelines will be followed.”

Mr Posner of Human Rights First disputes that and said this agreement has not been set up as a “gotcha system” but as a way “to work with companies to get them to improve what they are doing, credit them when they do it and call them out if they fail.”

While it is hoped many more companies will sign up, two European telecommunications firms, France Telecom and Vodafone, are already said to be considering adding their names.

Click here to read it on the original website.