To Boycott or not to Boycott

Amid tense debate as to whether PM Gordon Brown ought to boycott this summer’s Olympic Games in China or not, little attention seems to be given to the question of what effects such a boycott may or may not have. Traditionally people supporting a boycott of the Games argue that China’s human rights record is so appalling that Western leaders ought to disassociate themselves from China. Such arguments have gained further strength in light of recent Chinese clampdown on Tibetan protestors. For instance, the French President Nicholas Sarkozy has openly threatened to stay away from the opening ceremony in light of the Chinese treatment of Tibetan protestors. Similarly, human rights activists assert that Chinese investment in the oil industry of Sudan ought to lead to Western leaders distancing themselves from China. However, as for the argument about boycotting the Olympic Games, it may be argued that the current level of media attention afforded China and the tour of the Olympic torch as it travels around the world creates far more awareness of the human rights situation in China. Perhaps even more than the stay-away act of a Western head of state. Likewise, the vast amount of journalists, reporters, international delegations and foreign investment that will come China’s way in the build-up to the games may have a positive effect. Although such arguments would appear awfully utilitarian it might be argued that the human rights situation and political environment in China would have been even worse had China not been chosen as hosts. Discuss.