Warnings of a 'colour revolution' are overblown
Unlawful occupiers of Hong Kong's roads the students may be, but violent protesters intent on overthrowing the government they are not. Beijing thinks otherwise.
Unlawful occupiers of Hong Kong's roads the students may be, but violent protesters intent on overthrowing the government they are not. Beijing thinks otherwise. Officials are increasingly referring to the demonstrators in terms of a "colour revolution", contending that "foreign forces" are behind their actions. Those seeking democracy can dispel concerns by vacating the streets and embracing talks.
Warnings from mainland officials have been getting louder. Vice-Premier Wang Yang said during a trip to Russia that foreigners were supporting the protesters, their purpose clearly to "organise the so-called colour revolution". Liaison office chief Zhang Xiaoming said the protests were similar to colour revolutions overseas that had aimed to overthrow authority. Their sentiments have been strengthened by the international media, which is using the term "umbrella revolution", equating it with violent protests in the Middle East and eastern Europe that forced governments from power.
What is taking place on Hong Kong's streets is a matter of interpretation. To those seeking democracy, occupying busy roads with sit-ins are a peaceful pressure tactic to force the government's hand. The colour yellow has been adopted by protesters to show solidarity, the umbrella to symbolise a willingness to prevail against the odds, including police pepper spray and tear gas. Their demands - the resignation of Chief Executive Leung Chun-ying and the National People's Congress Standing Committee's reconsideration of its decision on the 2017 chief executive vote - although unrealistic given political circumstances, do not imply revolution.
Beijing sees matters differently. Trying to force from office an official it approved challenges its authority. Questioning a decision made by the highest legislative body is similarly incendiary. Use of a colour for a common stand is perceived as threatening; the Communist Party, which took power on the back of a "red revolution", knows that only too well.
Hong Kong's protesters are determined, but not driven to attain aims at any cost. The ferocity and rage of protests elsewhere that toppled governments are markedly absent from our streets; police have at times been heavy-handed and students have scuffled with people angered by the disruption to their lives, but there has not been chaos. There is a sense that matters could spin out of control, though, making it important fears are not needlessly sown and passions don't get too high.
