[John Carey]

Human rights abuses are a very big problem in China, Vietnam and elsewhere. We need to take notice and encourage openness and fair government. Regimes that abuse their people are often one-party systems without the benefits of the kinds of rights and freedoms we take for granted, including, free speech and freedom of the press.

China is a perfect example of a one-party system that limits freedom: no freedom of speech, no freedom of the press, no opposition party or independent government sector, no writs of habeas corpus, no search warrants authorized by an independent judiciary, no "Miranda rights," and no probable cause. Add a tireless attempt to limit and control what the people can know (the internet is managed, sites encouraging freedom are not allowed, and email is read by government agents looking for "subversives") and you have yourself a witches brew rife with human rights violations.

John Carey http://peace-and-freedom.blogspot.com/

[Iris7]

I suspect that some of sources used in this story are "ruling class" (and they ARE ruling class) lackeys (love that old Communist turn of phrase). No way the NYT can dig out a story unless spoon fed.

Routinely Beijing pillories provincial officialdom to "encourage the others", that is, to show those provincials who is boss. Such efforts are also effective propaganda amongst the lower classes. One remembers the crusade against official "corruption" last year and the year before.

[Iris7]

I do not mean to imply that this story is not true. Events are very likely accurately described. I have followed Mr. Chen's story with interest for two or three years.

The NYT sometimes makes a mistake and prints something useful and even accurate. One wonders why. Just not in character, what?

[DustyMoment]

Human Rights in China

Is this a David Letterman joke??