Autonomy vs. Independence

I saw this article on "Merinews". (Click the title of this blog entry for it) Not really sure what kind of source that is, it says some sort of 'citizen journalism' - nice idea. The article, while it isn't the best put out an issue that just doesn't get enough attention from anyone - Autonomy vs. Independence.

China has been saying the people creating the disturbance want pure independence from China. The Dalai Lama has long sought "meaningful Autonomy". Some activist groups again talk of independence.

The pro-Tibetan side will get nowhere without a clear goal. I agree wholeheartedly with the spirit of this article - pro-Tibetans need to give up on seeking independence; it simply won't happen. But they could have meaningful autonomy - like Scotland does with the UK or, even closer to home, like Hong Kong and Taiwan do in China.

At the same time, the Chinese government makes any headway and puts fuel on the fire by inflaming the issue only talking about seperatists when it's clear that's not the case. Only those censored from Dalai Lama's speaches and actions can claim to believe he does anything but advocate for autonomy.

So, what's my wishlist?
1. More news coverage in and out of China on the issue of Autonomy vs. Independence
2. The Tibetan gov't in exile to make up it's mind and push for Autonomy.
3. The Activist world to follow suit and push for that goal as well.
4. Chinese news to report people's ideas and positions as they actually are, rather than concocting them, as has largely been the case with the Dalai Lama.

(Yes yes yes - This wishlist is far from objective or encouraging debate - I know. As I've said - I encourage debate but have my own opinion. Regardless - autonomy is the "middle path" (to borrow Buddhism's slogan) to a solution for Tibet.

Good night.

-Trent