China says it will permit demonstrations in three designated city parks during the Summer Olympic Games in Beijing. But anyone seeking to protest must apply for permission from the government and police.

According to the BBC News, “the announcement suggests China will have a more relaxed attitude toward protestors during the Olympics than it had in the past. Chinese citizens are already allowed to stage rallies, although in reality there are few anti-government protests.”

Director of the Beijing organizing committee security department, Lui Shaowu, said protests would be permitted in Shijie, Zizhuyuan and Ritan parks.

But Mr. Wu did not clarify how potential protestors would apply for permission, and on whether spontaneous demonstrations would be allowed.

The issue of protests is a sensitive topic in China, because this year the nation has had to deal with unrest in Tibetan areas in western China. Hence, Chinese authorities appeared reluctant to publicize exactly where protests would be allowed.

As reported by the BBC, “earlier, Mr. Wu made it clear no activities involving ethnic, political or religious activities would be allowed inside Olympic venues.”

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