The Obama administration breathed a collective sigh of relief recently when Chinese
human rights activist Chen Guangcheng arrived in New York. His escape from house
arrest and refuge in the U.S. Embassy in Beijing sparked a diplomatic nightmare
for the U.S.
For years, Chen has been one of China's most vocal champions for human rights.
He first reached international prominence in 2005, when he sued the city of
Linyi for excessive enforcement of China's one-child policy, which he says resulted
in forced abortions.
Chinese authorities did not greet Chen's lawsuit warmly, imprisoning Chen that
same year. Eventually, he was put on house arrest. That's where many expected
he would remain, until his escape landed him in U.S. custody.
Chen's April escape created a moral dilemma for the U.S. On the one hand, the
country could rally around Chen's cause. That would draw attention to China's
human rights record but could imperil U.S.-China trade relations. Or, the U.S.
could ignore Chen's plight and effectively place economic interests before human
rights.
Ultimately, the Obama administration chose a middle ground by inviting Chen
to the U.S. on a student visa. This way, the administration avoided angering
China unduly, without abandoning Chen. Chen's advisors say he is happy with
the outcome for now, and plans to return to China in the long run. But while
the move may have been good politics, critics say it was bad for human rights.
Critics warn that Chen's move to the U.S. will worsen China's deteriorating
human rights record. While he may find an eager American audience, it will be
much more difficult for Chen to reach Chinese audiences back home. Ultimately,
this means that the victory may be Beijing's, not Obama's.
What do you think? Will Chen's arrival in America help or hinder human rights
in China?
By Marlene
Spoerri
Photo Credits in order of Appearance:
Pete
Souza/White House [also for pictures 7,
9,
& 10]
U.S.
Department of State [also for pictures 3,
11,
& 15]
kattebelletje
U.
Dettmar/ABr
Ted
Lippien
Jim
O'Donnell
Michael
Lieu
SFT
HQ
Samantha
Appleton/White House
