“Stephen Harper raises religious freedom concerns with China”

Nov. 7th, 2014 (cbc.ca)

Article Summary

• Prime Minister Harper visited Hangzhou, China to talk about trade

• Raised issues of religious freedom with Communist Party secretary, Baolong, for the Zhejiang province

• Baolong leads a province where there have been religious concerns

• Harper raised concerns about principles of freedom, democracy, and respect for human rights and diversity

http://news.nationalpost.com/2014/11/09/stephen-harper-tells-chinese-president-hes-concerned-about-canadian-

couple-held-in-china-as-suspected-spies/#__federated=1

Some background information

•Religious freedom in China is extremely limited

•For example, Sanjiang Church in Wenzhou was proclaimed and demolished by the government due to violation of planning rules

Some argue however…

• “Recognize China for the country that it wants to become, what it is already. And not try to impose our values excessively on this country. It’s a unique country.” – Guy Nelson, CEO of Empire Industries

• “Engaging with China doesn’t mean agreeing with China.” – David Mulroney, Canada’s ex-ambassador to China

Connections to Civics

• Canada highly values principles of freedom, democracy, and respect for human rights and diversities

• Harper demonstrating global citizenship, and responsible government

• Issues with the article:• Focused too much on what

Harper had to say

• Did not state China’s president’s opinion on this issue

Let’s have a discussion!

• Harper raised concerns about religious freedom to the government of China. However, there are others who believe that he shouldn’t impose Canadian values to China. Do you think Harper did the right thing by discussing these issues with China? Explain

• When should a country’s government have a discussion about human rights with another country?

My opinion

• China has it’s own set of laws and regulations

• However, there were concerns about religious freedom being revoked

• If China strongly disagrees with some of Canada’s policies, do you think it would be appropriate for China’s president to have a discussion with our Prime Minister?