The Way out of the Woods: The Promises and Perils of China's Peaceful Transition (Taking the New Citizens Movement as a Case Study)

The George Washington University Law School presents a talk by Chen Min on China's democratic transition.

The recent rise of China without democratic reforms represents a dilemma for the entire world. An authoritarian China gaining power and stakes in the international system has troubling implications. At times it looks like no one knows how to manage, let alone resolve, the contradictions inherent in this development. The first step out of this dilemma is for Westerners to stop equating the Chinese government with the people and the country, and to recognize that there is enormous demand within China for a democratic future. The New Citizens Movement is the most striking example of this popular yearning and broad movement for rule of law and civil and political rights.

China's democratic transition is arguably the most perilous and rewarding change facing the world today. A transition which spins out of control can have disastrous consequences outside of China's borders, while the rise of a peaceful and democratic China will be the best thing for the international order. But how will it happen? What about the equally enormous policy, structural and ideological challenges it faces? Ultimately, it is the people of China who must build it from within. Those in the West can help, however, by listening to their side of the story and understanding our common challenges. Chen Min, a prominent journalist and activist, is one of China's most respected public intellectuals whose ideas are helping to 
shape civil society. He will explore the perils and promises of this transition and share the analysis and vision from the best and the bravest in China today.

CHEN Min (Xiao Shu)

Chen Min, who writes under the pen name of Xiao Shu, was an editor and columnist for the Southern Weekly media conglomerate, China's leading liberal media outlet. The political commentary under his editorship, much of which he penned personally and in the teeth of censorship, was central to debates on China's political future. He is also an influential voice on the role of civil society and the obligations and rights of citizens in a modern state, highlighting the importance and challenges facing the New Citizens Movement. His contribution to the rebuilding of values and freedom of speech began with his research in contemporary Chinese history. Two important works he wrote fifteen years ago, highlighting the Communist Party's broken promises to build a democratic China, were banned, but their influence is still felt today.

Directions: Go to 5th floor on elevators outside 1st floor library entrance (opposite 20th St. entrance to Law School). Burns 505 is behind the elevator bank

The talk will be recorded and webcast at this link: http://bit.ly/1tbgW5l