The Economic Approach Theory |
In Chinese politics, democracy is never an agenda. The idea of representation and such is not a concept that the government would be able to understand completely. Thus, the demand for election may not be gained through this way. If the government can care about the values that the protestors is protesting about, then it would make sense that the protest is going to be successful. What does the government care about then?
The China Program of Jimmy Carter Center has identified several traits of "the China Model".
With this pragmatism and system of meritocracy, we can see that the government put the growth and stability over anything. Specially in this issue,Xi had responded to the protest: "The rule of law is a key foundation for Hong Kong's long-term stability and prosperity … The central government will stay committed to the 'one country, two systems' principle and the Basic Law. We will firmly support Hong Kong to develop democracy in line with law and its endeavor to maintain its long-term stability." (David Ignatius: China’s Xi Jinping consolidates power and brings stability, Washington Post)
Therefore, stability and economic growth are priorities of the Chinese government. A demand or threat, for such terms might be more effective than anything else. If the government loses the satisfaction of the citizens as a result of economic growth, the government will lose a big part its legitimacy. Universal suffrage is really a long-term goal for Hong Kong, and the best to get that is to prove from an economic point of view through time.
The China Program of Jimmy Carter Center has identified several traits of "the China Model".
- a reward system designed for ability and accomplishment
- a government for the people whose leaders are unselfish, diligent and with laser beam focus
- good at correcting mistakes, learning, adaptation and reflection
- pragmatism: "crossing the river while touching stones; do, do not talk; keeping a low profile and being modest "-Deng
With this pragmatism and system of meritocracy, we can see that the government put the growth and stability over anything. Specially in this issue,Xi had responded to the protest: "The rule of law is a key foundation for Hong Kong's long-term stability and prosperity … The central government will stay committed to the 'one country, two systems' principle and the Basic Law. We will firmly support Hong Kong to develop democracy in line with law and its endeavor to maintain its long-term stability." (David Ignatius: China’s Xi Jinping consolidates power and brings stability, Washington Post)
Therefore, stability and economic growth are priorities of the Chinese government. A demand or threat, for such terms might be more effective than anything else. If the government loses the satisfaction of the citizens as a result of economic growth, the government will lose a big part its legitimacy. Universal suffrage is really a long-term goal for Hong Kong, and the best to get that is to prove from an economic point of view through time.