Iran Learning Lessons From China?
By Ian
Interesting read from Global Insight on the potential reforms in Iran.
Some prominent conservative leaders not only support domestic economic reforms, but are also interested in increasing Iran’s economic ties with Europe. There are also indications that “pragmatic” conservatives are interested in reducing the tensions between Iran and the United States. To the extent that these initiatives will help improve economic conditions and boost living standards, they can help the Islamic regime enhance its domestic popularity. These developments give some merit to the economic thrust of Iran’s pursuit of the China model.
Is it possible to sustain an authoritarian regime with a liberal economy? Uncle Milty Friedman didn't think so. And I'm not sure China's really proving him wrong. That the political reforms are slower than the economic ones in China doesn't seem, to me, a refutation of the idea that economically free people won't ultimately start pushing hard for political freedoms as well; only that concentration on solidfying economic gains is often time-consuming and important enough that they take precedence. As people progress, and the ability to take some time away from working, I'd wager that we'll start seeing more pressure for reform in the political sphere in China (and, possibly, Iran).
Comments