UK Prime Minister Pushes Chinese Democracy

In an article by the BBC, David Cameron, the Prime Minister of the UK, is expected to address the benefits of democracy to the Chinese, and how it could lead to "stability and prosperity." While he is on a trade trip to China, he is pressured to address human rights issues within the country, and wishes to do so in a frank manner, not overly critical. He acknowledges that Democratic nations are not perfect, but they provide great benefits to the public and to the government. He hopes that in the wake of an increasingly free economic system of China, a freer and more democratic political system may result. He believes that an system in which the government and leaders must listen to the public and criticisms therein is one that results in "robust policies" and increased confidence from the governed. While in preliminary talks, Cameron mentioned human rights, but sidestepped some of the major issues facing China today, emphasizing the economic role of the meetings over the human rights. These specific issues will be addressed as the meetings continue.

Posted by: Zach Porlier