Beijing’s
election as the host of the 2008 Olympics has been controversial from the
start, as it seems that economic and technical advancement was a walk in the
park for China
when compared to social issues. Living
up to the Olymic Charter, which emphasizes “respect for universal
fundamental ethical principles”, and the 2008 Olympic slogan, One World,
One Dream which preaches China’s
commitment to “peaceful development, harmonious society and people's
happiness” has proved a lofty ambition.
The spotlight and scrutiny associated with the Olympics may be exactly the
kind of thing China needs to elicit change; but appeasing the international
community when it comes to political and human rights issues, pollution, and
freedom of the press, both domestic and foreign, is not such a simple task.
Pressure and criticisms from the international community
continue to mount, from major nongovernmental organizations, governments, and individuals
alike. According to the New York Times,
Spielberg said recently “that he was withdrawing from his role as the Games’
artistic adviser because he believed that Beijing
had failed to use its influence to end the humanitarian crisis in the Darfur region of Sudan.” Seems like everyone’s taking a shot.
The president of the International Olympic Committee reminds
us in an interview with The Associated Press that “the Olympic Games are a
force for good but don't expect from the games what they cannot deliver.” Perhaps we should curb our expectations
for a quick fix, but the Olympic spotlight has at least opened this can of worms
and the pressure has hopefully made China
realize that to be a major world player it will have to keep up on all fronts.