In the past few weeks, large protests have slowly diminished in Hong Kong over voting rights. Protesters still remain, however, peaceful actions by the government have begun to take place. Most recently, televised debates between student protesters and government officials were aired live.
Do you think Hong Kong may actually consider endorsing democratic views and ways?
I think its still hard to determine the possibilities of Hing Kong actually acknowledging the democratic views and desires of these protesters. However, I do believe that the method that the protesters are using to promote democracy is the right. The more and more people begin to show interest, the more the government will be force to take action. Hopefully their action will not result in violence.
I agree with Alexis in that it's really too hard to determine at the moment id Hong Kong will adopt democratic views, but i do think that the nation as a whole is heading into the right direction with televised debates showing the opinions of both the student protesters and the government.
I also agree that it is hard to determine what exactly Hong Kong is doing. I think the people are doing the right thing by staying persistent with their protest to have Democracy.
Beijing doesn't seem willing to compromise on the issue, these half-election of having only party approved candidates is absurd and I too would protest and call for democracy, especially since the people of Hong Kong were promised democracy when the city was returned to China from the British. If the protesters win out and a real democracy is adopted in Hong Kong, whoever they elect will come into conflict with the party in Beijing.
"Officials in the two-hour debate made no promises and said they were there to listen. Still, the exchange suggested a softening in the crisis that has convulsed Hong Kong for nearly a month and a possible exit ramp from it."
I think that it is a very positive start. Again, it cannot be determined what is actually going to be made of it. But, the fact that they are willing to listen to students is definitely a positive start.
If Beijing is willing to allow this, then there is hope. However there is no telling as to how it would make the government look in the main area of China. During much of the demonstrations, BBC news was blocked on Chinese television so I'm guessing that Beijing is the feeling the opposite of happy regarding Hong Kong.
We can't be very sure if Hong Kong will endorse democratic views but there is a chance it will because people really what someone to do something about this situation.
Hong Kong could potentially be that stepping stone to set off a democratic wave across China. I think it remains important for us to remain optimistic at this time for Hong Kong and the rest of China. I also think we need to be careful. This situation is fragile; throwing a bunch of U.S. aid could taint this democratic hope. We'll have to wait and see what the future holds. I deeply hope this is the edge of something very big for Hong Kong.
It's kind of shocking to me that the government in China would even be open for debating democracy. It's definitely a step in the right direction though. I think change will come from it if the government is really willing to listen to the protesters, but because of Beijing, I think the idea of Hong Kong actually adopting a democracy is rare.
if they are willing to listen this is a start. Democratic ideals have to be spoken out by many young and old and the world will spread. The push for democracy will be noticed and will have to be acknowledged some how. who knows the likely hood of the government ever changing, this is a step in the right direction however.
I also agree with Alexis that it is too hard to determine what Hong Kong plans to do. But, by televising debates, they are obviously considering it. Now if this is a show or a real debate is a question. However, only time will tell.
