You call the leader of the opposition and tell him that the United States fully supports a peaceful protest.
But if the crowd turns violent, that will not help achieve the elections. A violent protest will also hinder efforts to deliver humanitarian aid. He agrees that the aid is vital. He says he will make public statements in advance of the protest telling people to stay peaceful and not to provoke the police. But he points out that he cannot control how the police will respond.
After you get off the phone, your staff hands you a new public opinion poll. It shows that 70% of Americans oppose expanding trade with anti-democratic countries. American press discusses the results of this poll and highlights Myca as an example of an anti-democratic country.
— U.S. Peace Corps safety announcementWe advise all Peace Corps volunteers in Myca to avoid large public gatherings for their own safety. If you see a crowd forming, leave the area immediately.
— Interfaith Council of MycaMyca’s faith leaders stand with the students in their quest for greater rights but urge that all sides remain peaceful.
— Pew Research CenterOur opinion poll was nationwide. The response was overwhelmingly against expanding trade with anti-democratic countries.
