Hamburg outrage sends clear message
- By Sajjad Malik
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E-mail China.org.cn, July 11, 2017
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The two-day G20 summit, involving the leaders of 19 leading economies plus the European Union, is held in the German city of Hamburg. [File photo] |
The two-day G20 summit, involving the leaders of 19 leading economies plus the European Union, held in the German city of Hamburg, will be remembered for both the wrangling in the conference hall over issues like climate change and the violent protests outside.
The participants were upset at the unilateral withdrawal of the United States, represented in Hamburg by President Donald Trump, from the Paris climate change agreement.
But their frustration injected a greater sense of purpose, and they succeeded in isolating and cornering Trump. He underwent a tough time, for which he can only blame his own self-serving policies.
The G20 minus Trump went ahead to announce support for the Paris deal. All the leaders deserve appreciation for standing up for the climate and saying no to one man’s idiosyncrasies – a man who disputes the scientific facts and considers the greenhouse gases effect as a “hoax.”
It was also worthy that the same people decided against any kind of “renegotiation” of the climate change agreement signed in Paris in 2015, which Trump had previously suggested could make him change his mind.
There was even greater unity of purpose outside the meeting venue as the G20 leaders were discussing economic and strategic matters. Thousands of protestors fought pitched battles with riot police to highlight what they regard as the real issues facing ordinary people around the globe often ignored at the multilateral gatherings of powerful leaders.
They also protested against the presence of Trump and Russian leader Vladimir Putin, the two strong men who, by their agreement or disagreement, can virtually dictate global peace and war.
However, the real cause for bringing out the activists was the increasing economic and social vulnerability of many citizens in the world. Global economic policies are highly skewed in the favor of powerful elite. Despite increase in the per capita income and global economic output, millions still live below the poverty line.
Even the middle class are finding it increasingly hard to live a life of ease and comfort. Job security is becoming dependent on economic fluctuations. The costs of healthcare, education, housing and utilities are becoming out of reach for many white-collar folks. On the other hand, the number of millionaires and billionaires is increasing.
There was time when people believed they could change inefficient rulers through the vote. However, even democracy has been hijacked and rich individuals and powerful lobbies have the final say. The recent U.S. elections show a new trend that a powerful country can use technology to sway the outcome of polls.
Thus, money coupled with strong arm tactics and increasing cohesion among the global elite has squeezed the political space for common people. The net result is that a rich minority lives in luxury not giving a damn about the vast majority with little or limited resources. The G20 typifies this trend, as it represents one-third of the world population, but controls more than 80 percent of economic resources.
That is why people are angry and express their outrage whenever they get a chance. They desire a more equitable world order and stage protests at venues where leaders of a rich world meet to decide future policies.
In Hamburg, the protestors made a bold show of purpose. Though, they failed to stop Trump and Putin from attending the conference but Mrs. Trump was unable to go out for an event due to blockades by demonstrators.
The disturbing part was the uncontrolled violence, as some of the participants resorted to arson and even looting. Those doing such things either lose sight of the objective of the struggle or they join it with the aim to cause mischief and commit crimes.
It should be sign of warning for the world elite. Those taking to the streets are ready to face police, water cannons, teargas and even bullets. They also retaliate with violence where possible as they think that there is no option except to fight for their rights.
Forums like the G20 should listen to the grievances of the people and adjust the policies accordingly. Otherwise the anger and outrage of the global underdog might become overwhelming.
Sajjad Malik is a columnist with China.org.cn. For more information please visit:
http://www.china.org.cn/opinion/SajjadMalik.htm
Opinion articles reflect the views of their authors, not necessarily those of China.org.cn.
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