In several previous posts I discussed the intense controversy surrounding the upcoming Beijing Olympics. In recent weeks the traditional international journey of the Olympic Torch has served as a flash point for clashes between supporters and protesters.

Ironically, this torch relay was supposed to be the largest in Olympic history—a showcase of international cooperation and sport. Instead, it has become a testament to international outrage over China’s human rights abuses, especially over Tibet.

March 31: A huge carefully scripted ceremony at Beijing’s Tiananmen Square sent the torch off across the globe

April 3: In Istanbul, Turkey, the Uighur expat community staged demonstrations against Chinese persecution of their “brother” expats in Xinjiang. In February 2007, for example, an Uigur activist named Ismail Semed, was executed on the shaky grounds of attempting to “split the motherland” and possessing explosives.

April 6: Massive clashes occurred between Free Tibet protesters and police during the London relay. Thirty-seven protesters were arrested including a man who tried to snatch the torch away from one of the runners. Another tried to put out the torch with a fire extinguisher. Read More »

Despite what they may think, Thai police officers are not above the law. In fact, a new measure enacted to ensure that they don’t commit even the smallest misdemeanors may lead one to believe that they are far below the law, moreso than any common citizen.

A senior officer in Bangkok claims that any officer caught littering or arriving late to work will be forced to sport a hot pink Hello Kitty armband. The armband depicts the adorable Japanese kitten sitting on top of two hearts.

The new punishment will require the officers to don the armband for the entire work day. They will also be required to remain in the police station, unable to carry out their normal duties. This may actually come as a relief to the macho Thai officer blatantly wearing a Hello Kitty accessory. Read More »