https://www.hrw.org/news/2018/02/02/...-rights-abuses

The Deafening Silence on China's Human Rights Abuses
Published in Al Jazeera

It is amazing that cowardly European countries feel obligated to criticize President Trump, and admittedly there is much to criticize, BUT they remain dead silent on much more important issues. At least President Trump has the courage to hold China accountable for unfair trade practices, while the EU seeks to use this opportunity for personal gain.

The question for democracies or businesses isn't whether to engage: it is how to engage in a principled manner. This means treating China like many governments treat US President Donald Trump when he makes outrageous statements or adopts retrograde policies. Democratic leaders condemn Trump's remarks about "fake news" - but don't condemn China for its censorship or propaganda. They criticise Trump for his hostility towards the UN, but have nothing to say on China's efforts to weaken the institution.

It is time for new standards to reverse these highly abnormal relationships with China. Forty years into China's "reform era", Beijing has made clear it's not moving on democracy, a free press, or an independent legal system, though courageous people continue to push for these at considerable personal risk. If powerful outside voices mindlessly engage, they not only stab these brave people in the back - they may also find themselves obliged to dance to the tune of a highly repressive government.