Burma Close to a Boil

Events have escalated, and so has the media coverage.  A part of the world that has suffered for longer than we have cared to acknowledge is finally receiving the attention it deserves...although it may be too late.

Burma's Junta is holding its saber steady above the heads of the protesting monks, whose respected position in society has kept them alive.  That, and the influence of neighboring China, who has tried to keep the peace, even though their own human rights record is more laughable than The Simpsons at its zenith.  Why has China, a country who worries more about amassing regional power than individual rights, become a champion of civil disobedience at this time?  Many believe it is all about geopolitics: a stable region is a profitable region.  It could also give China some brownie points with all the rich countries, and their 'Western' ideas on freedom and human rights.

Whatever the reason, the attention the event is now receiving may end up saving the monks and the region, or amplifying the ripple effect a massacre would create.  The call for a just end is increasing in pitch.  If we see a bloodbath or a dove on the 11 o'clock news will be a last minute call.