Chinese Muse Promoters Attack Bjork's 'Tibet Outburst'

They call it unfortunate...

by Jason Gregory
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Photo by: Shirlaine Forrest

Chinese Muse Promoters Attack Bjork's 'Tibet Outburst'

Watch Bjork - 'Declare Independence'

Music promoters in China have expressed concern about the country’s new plans to tighten controls against foreign performers.

The plans were announced by China's Culture Ministry last Friday (March 7th) following Bjork’s cries of ‘Tibet Tibet’ during a recent concert.

The Peoples Republic of China has ruled Tibet since 1951 and conversation about Tibet’s independence is considered a taboo in China.

On their website, the Ministry said that Bjork’s words had "hurt the feelings of Chinese people".

John Siegel, a music promoter in China, told Reuters that Bjork’s comments were “unfortunate”.

"I am concerned that tougher restrictions will apply, when it was finally getting a little more relaxed,” he said.

“Also, artists may not want to comply with tougher restrictions and choose not to come to China altogether."

Despite the arrival of more high profile acts over recent years, including the Rolling Stones, China has always imposed tight rules to make sure concerts are politically correct.

Artists have to submit their set-lists and lyrics before a concert can go ahead, and must ensure they do nothing to harm “national unity”.

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Human rights abuse by the current Chinese government is a serious crime against humanity. Artists or anyone who advocate human rights are to be highly honoured for their action is to promote more freedom, happiness and reduce suffering. Given the very poor human records and suppression of their own people the current Chinese governement do not deserve the honour of hosting the Olympic game. For Tibetans the situation in Tibet is far worst off now than under the old Tibetan government.
~ by S Tsering 3/12/2008
Freedom from hunger, from disease, from ignorance, from slavery and from a life of perpetual serfdom must surely outweigh all other considerations. There cannot be a going back to those dark ages for the Tibetan Chinese , for whom denial of basic human rights and dignity was part of the lamaist culture for a thousand years. Bjork needs global publicity to promote her career, as do some Hollywood actors and actresses, and politicians whose stars have faded.
~ by vjie 3/13/2008