A curated selection of public diplomacy-relevant news from a global cross-section of English-language media outlets, including independent, corporate-owned, and state-sponsored sources. The stories featured don't necessarily represent CPD's views nor have they been verified by CPD.
Clandestine Olympic protests
In the world of the Olympic protester, those people who have come to Beijing to voice their complaints about the Chinese government, cloak-and-dagger publicity stunts days before the start of the Games are one way to get their message out.
Foreigners Protest for Tibetan Independence in Beijing
Two days ahead of the opening ceremony of the Beijing Olympics, China seems to have reneged on its pledge to honor freedom of expression after the arrest of demonstrators and the unexplained revocation of visas.
Olympic Stadium With a Design to Remember
Given the astounding expectations piled upon the National Stadium, I’m surprised it hasn’t collapsed under the strain.
Ambush in China Raises Concerns as Olympics Near
Two men armed with knives and explosives ambushed a military police unit in China’s majority Muslim northwest on Monday. State media reported the attackers killed 16 officers and wounded 16 others, likely making it the deadliest outburst of ethnic violence in China since at least the early 1990s.
China Clears Streets for the Olympics
As part of its bid to host the Olympics, China promised to improve its human rights record. Last month, the government announced that it would go so far as to designate space in city parks where protesters could exercise free speech. But such pledges come at the same time as the unprecedented crackdown in the streets. Along with beggars and pickpockets, the petitioners appear to top the list of the personae non gratae whom Beijing wants out before Friday.
Getting in Shape for Games, China Strengthens Ties With Neighbors
After two years of intensive and often secretive overtures, Taiwan and Japan, two neighbors long viewed as the most likely to face a military threat from a rising China have been drawn closer into its orbit. Improved relations have not only reduced the chances of a flare-up that could disrupt China’s turn as an Olympic host, but also helped showcase China’s frequent claims to be a new kind of global power that intends to rise on the world stage without engaging in military conflict.
China’s Iron Hand
Instead of the Olympics serving as a means for China to clean up its human-rights act, it is using the excuse of the Games to clamp down even further. And, instead, to paint on that veneer of excitement and joy.
China Promises Safe, Peaceful Olympics
China is promising a safe and peaceful Summer Olympics, despite a deadly attack on police officers in the country's northwest.
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