Reports suggest the "economic value" of the sex and related industries was 50 billion yuan ($8.24 billion), accounting for 14 percent of Dongguan's GDP. This has prompted some people to surmise that the crackdown on the sex trade is bad for the economy. Though the data is incomplete and unscientific, the sex industry has indeed helped the growth of the hospitality and transportation industry.
But sex trade has always been associated with crime syndicates, violence, drug trafficking and corruption. Besides, most of the Chinese people are not in favor of legalizing prostitution. And even if the sex industry helps a city's economic growth, it destroys public order and invites rampant crime, diseases and corruption, which will eventually erode its foundations.
The sex trade problem in Dongguan is a serious test for social morality and the government's determination to fight evil. What should "hang in there" are social values, for they are the cornerstone of a nation and unify people in a multicultural society. Hence, legalizing prostitution is out of the question.
As for the poor, they should strive for a better life through education and hard work. Of course, the government needs to provide necessary help to and create jobs for them.
Dongguan, too, should hang in there, but only as a city of high moral values. Good reputation is a valuable but vulnerable intangible asset for a city, which is built on good social order, diligent citizens and a lofty spirit.
For the sake of sustainable growth in these fast changing times, cities known for their manufacturing units must have the vision to transform themselves by developing more hi-tech and value-added industries.
The government and police must also hang in there to ensure that Dongguan transforms into a city that meets the high moral standards of life. Fighting crime and punishing people who violate laws are the duty of law enforcement officers. In particular, they have to free society of corrupt officials to end prostitution and win people's trust.
Although public disagreements show that society is becoming more tolerant, there cannot be any compromise when it comes to following the law and adhering to the basic social values.
The government should ensure that people believe in its rules and actions, and take urgent measures to help the disadvantaged group live a better life, create an open and dynamic economy, and build a fairer and safer society for all.
The author is a fellow at the research office of Shunyi district people's court in Beijing.
(China Daily 02/20/2014 page9)
New type of urbanization is in the details
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