The EU and China: must the games go on?

When the Olympic Committee decided seven years ago to give the Summer Olympics to Beijing, the hope prevailed that this decision would contribute to the improvement of the human rights situation in China and a further democratisation of the country. Unfortunately, the contrary seems to have happened: human rights continue to be disrespected and the recent protests in Tibet were answered with brutal repression. It will be up to the French EU presidency to take a stance and send out a clear message to the Chinese leadership.

- Can and should the Olympic Games be used improve the human rights situation and the situation in Tibet?
- How can the EU continue to contribute to a peaceful solution of the Tibet-conflict?
- Is there a way to influence the role China plays in Dafur?
- Will the tragic natural disasters of the last weeks and the support of the international community have a long-term effect on the openness of the country?
- What steps can we expect from the French EU presidency regarding the short- term and long- term relationship with China?