In an unprecedent announcement, Chinese officials have stated there will be national plan to improve human rights protection in the country. Officials stated that the plan is to address issues such as government function, expanding democracy, strengthening the rule of law, improving people's livelihood, protecting rights of women, children and ethnic minorities and boosting public awareness of human rights.

The announcements by the State Council Information Office do not come with any timetable for drafting or implementing a plan. The details remain unknown, and it is unlikely that any dramatic, short term change would occur in the areas of democracy, womens rights, protection of ethnic minorities and the like. This would require an overhaul of current policy (such as one child), legislation (such as media restrictions for local journalists) and practice (rural courts and police treating minority groups unjustly). However, the fact that State officials are using such language and recognising that a plan is needed to address these issues are very positive steps in China.

It is quite possible that the ripple effect of the Olympic pressure is taking effect in China. That the Games went ahead and so much effort was made for them to be a 'success' and now the messages that the international community was sending and that so many within China have been pushing for are being heeded by Government.

We will monitor closely any developments of this plan, timelines and details.

There is always hope...