Has Any Communist Country Ever Had a Good Human Rights Record?

It is often argued that communist countries have not had a good human rights record. However, a closer examination reveals that these critiques often come from a capitalist perspective on human rights. The perceived human rights abuses in communist countries tend to focus on the alleged disappearances and the use of force during their revolutions or struggles. It is essential to understand the context in which these criticisms arise.

Communist Perceptions of Human Rights vs. Capitalist Perceptions

The term 'human rights' is not universally agreed upon. To some, it represents the nebulous concept that bourgeois society must impose on the populace. Conversely, to others, it conveys a more concrete and actionable set of principles. In the context of communism, the struggle for human rights is often seen as a means to an end, namely the establishment of a communist state. Critics argue that communist countries focus on the revolution, the struggle, and the promise of a utopia, often at the expense of the present reality. By extension, this perspective suggests that any form of torture or killing committed by these states is part of a larger narrative of revolutionary zeal.

Historical Context and State-Capitalist Developments

Many countries labeled as 'communist' have not fully followed the principles of genuine communism. In reality, these states often practiced a form of state-capitalism where the state apparatus was used to accelerate economic development. This approach, reminiscent of rapid industrialization in Western capitalist countries, required a strong and centralized government to suppress opposition and maintain stability. Throughout the development process, these states often engaged in civil wars or were targeted by developed capitalist nations seeking to control resources. A notable example is the French Revolution, which required the state to impose significant changes and suppress resistance using violence.

The Delusion of Perfect Socialist Societies

The concept of a socialist society, where common ownership and free access to resources are the norm, is often misunderstood. True socialism, built upon a well-developed economic and technological infrastructure, does not necessitate strict human rights protections if there are no ruling elites. In practice, the need for such protections arises from the existence of power imbalances and class structures. The reality is that the struggle for communism may involve sacrifices, but a true socialist society, once established, would transcend the need for traditional human rights protections.

Conclusion

While it is true that some communist countries have faced human rights challenges, these issues are more closely related to state-capitalist development strategies than to true socialist principles. Understanding the historical and socio-political context is crucial in evaluating the human rights record of any political system. As we move towards a more equitable society, it is important to distinguish between state-capitalist approaches and genuine socialist ideals.