China, Tibet and Norway - Thoughts concerning a conflict with a consideration of history, theory and foreign policy

The unsolved conflict between China and the Tibetan population represents a major obstacle to China's international relations, especially those concer ning Western nations who hold high the banner of human rights. Western poli cy and Western opinion, however, appear to be based less on facts and knowl edge than on old Cold War myths. The article argues that this conflict, by origin a national conflict, should rather be approached as a human rights c oncern. The article presents a sketch of its historical origins and develop ment of the conflict, and some basic patterns of Chinese politics. These ar e contrasted to theoretical aspects of separatism and the right of national self-determination. Finally, the implications for Norwegian foreign policy are discussed, and, in conclusion, a few points that are likely to determi ne future development are given.