Since June, protesters have regularly taken to the streets of Hong-Kong by millions, first to oppose an extradition law which would have put the city under Beijing’s judicial system, then to ask for more civil liberties. On the 4th of September, Carrie Lam, the governor yielded and accepted the complete withdrawal of the extradition law. However, these events are symbolic of a deeper crisis that threatens the principle “one country, two systems” which rules the relationship between Beijing and Hong-Kong since 1997 and, theoretically, until 2047.
What will happen now ? Will the protests completely fade away, or will they start again, in order to claim for more civil liberties ?
What does this episode tell us about the relationship between Hong-Kong and the ¨People’s Republic of China, which will celebrate its 70th anniversary on the 1st of October ? Isn’t the opposition of the population of Hong-Kong to the rules of Beijing symbolic of the failure of the People’s Republic of China to assert its will, let alone attract ?
Finally, what is the role Western Countries and especially United Kingdom should and can play in this crisis : to adopt a passive stance and encouraging the protesters, of a more active one, denouncing the behaviour of Chinese authorities ? What is the British government’s leeway towards China, in the middle of the Brexit crisis ?
Come debate with us in St John’s College, Oxford (New Seminar Room) on Wednesday 15th October, 19h30-20h30
FREE refreshments will be provided.
The one-hour session will be followed by an informal discussion in the college’s bar, next door.
No debate experience or political background is necessary, we encourage walk-ins and we value diversity of perspectives and opinions.
