The mistrust many Tibetans feel towards China is well documented. And the cause célèbre status of Tibet in the West means anything that happens in Tibet is magnified many fold. These facts are not lost on the CCP, which is using last Wednesday’s earthquake in northwest Tibet to run some clever plays that improve the way Tibetans and the West perceive Chinese policy towards the region.

President Hu wasted little time in sending relief aid to the region. From an influence strategist’s perspective, Hu’s decision (and the swiftness with which the aid was sent) is meant to serve as compassion-building Screens that frame Beijing as concerned and kindhearted. At an overarching level, the aid also serves to Jam the perception that the ruling party doesn’t care for the Tibetan people.

If party officials sustain these efforts, it’s possible that we will look at this earthquake as a turning point in Beijing’s efforts to positively Recast China’s image on the plateau.  If they don't, expect more Mirrors and Call Outs from the free-Tibet folks.

Posted by: Alice Hu

Photo Credit: china.org.cn