In LTC Sanborn’s “Politics in East Asia” course, this week, we discussed the ongoing student protests in Hong Kong against the Chinese government. Currently, the students of the universities of Hong Kong are boycotting class and protesting in the name of Democracy. The protests have expanded further than just students to intellectuals and working people. While Hong Kong remains a part of the People’s Republic of China, many Hong Kong residents are upset regarding the organization of the elections. Hong Kong was promised free elections by China. However, while the elections are free, the process by which the potential candidates is controlled by the central government. The protests in Hong Kong are a result of the displeasure of the population, particularly the students, over the organization of the election process.
Unlike China, Hong Kong has a relatively free press which allows them free access to the internet, particularly unlimited access to social media. This has given the rest of the world a glimpse in to the protests in the city. This has helped gain sympathy for the protesters, particularly from democratic nations. The question is, how will China react to these protests? Currently, the protests are being controlled by the Hong Kong police force. However, as tensions rise, will the regional police force be able to maintain control. Will China have to step in and make a stand with the protesters? What will this look like and how will it impact the Chinese government?
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