Reference no: EM132909882

Xinjiang, the Uyghurs, and China

Question 1: Why do the Uyghurs desire an independent state? What grievances have they experienced at the hands of the Chinese government that fuel secessionism and Uyghur nationalism? How has the Chinese Communist Party responded to these grievances? Have those responses aggravated secessionism or reduced it? Why or why not? Provide examples.

Question 2: According to Roberts, how have Chinese claims of terrorism by Uyghur "extremists" justified their actions and policies in response to that purported terrorism? What evidence exists that Uyghur groups were involved in terrorist organizations that threatened the Chinese state? Exactly how do the Uyghurs' desire for greater autonomy, rights, and self-determination threaten China's national interests and national security? What are the implications of how China's rulers perceive that threat?

Question 3: What is the current situation in Xinjiang in 2021? How has the Chinese government responded to recent waves of riots, unrest, terrorist attacks, and agitation by Uyghurs? How can one characterize that response by the CCP and Chinese authorities? What has been the result of those efforts by the Chinese authorities? What do these actions, policies, and efforts mean for Uyghur demands for independence and self-determination? How do these actions by the CCP affect Uyghur political demands and aspirations?