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gee this could compromise climbing in the area 12-Oct-2006 At 2:31:43 PM gravitychaser

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I don't know why the world seems to have a romantic view of Tibet and its occupation by China. Perhaps the stunning landscape or perhaps the nature of the people contributes to this view, or even our view as climbers. But Tibet is not the only place recently or even currently suffering from an occupying force or oppressive regime that is harming the locals:

Up to one million people were slaughtered in Rwanda in 1994 between the Tutsi (cattle herders) and Hutu (farmers).

Zimbabwe is suffering under the regime of Robert Mugabe. Once the "Breadbasket of Africa", Zimbabwe is facing food shortages for the first time.

Although Chechnya has voted for independence, Russia refuses to loosen its grip. Political assassinations continue on both sides. Chechnya has an independent government-in-exile, however they have only been recognised as such by Georgia and the Taliban!

The farmer people of the Dafur region of Sudan are being slaughtered by the truckload (est. 400 000) by the Arab-related Muslim Bedouin militias.

Western Sahara remains under the occupation of Morocco (2/3) and Mauritania (1/3) despite the UN ceasfire in 1991 and referendum planned for 1992 (not yet held).

And yes, North Korea continues under the oppressive yoke of "Dear Leader" --> he looked so good in "Team America".

Need I go on?

Yes, the continuing Chinese occupation of Tibet is terrible, but let's not forget the rest of the world. It's a nasty place out there, and it makes us appreciate what we have all the more.

Jason.