The theme for the open semi-final of this year's Debatable IV is international relations. On April 21, 2021, the New York Times published an article that illustrates a key dilemma facing the Biden administration-- can it really work with Beijing on issues like climate change while effectively challenging Beijing on human rights issues?

The transition into greener energy through solar panels is one of the ways the world can combat climate change. Currently, China controls the majority of the solar supply chain. One of the key materials of solar panels comes from Xinjiang, a region in China where Uighur internment camps are located. Recently, China held a business conference warning the world of unilateralism pursued by certain countries that would ultimately discourage cooperation. This statement is directed towards the US who recently talked about self-sufficiency in supply chains. The US is now faced with a dilemma: should they cooperate with China on climate change or exclude China until it resolves its human rights issues in Xinjiang. 

The motion reads: TH, as the US, would cooperate with China. Much thanks to Ashley Dejarme for contributing this motion and for giving us their valuable insights!

'China's Solar Dominance Presents Biden With an Ugly Dilemma' (Swanson and Plumer, New York Times):https://www.nytimes.com/2021/04/20/business/economy/china-biden-solar-panels.html

00:00 Introduction1:17 What is the context behind this motion?2:15 Why mix environment and international relations in a motion?5:13 There must be a tradeoff between environment and human rights6:28 Framing on gov + Realist theory10:43 What arguments to prioritize in the opening half?15:08 Extending on gov18:52 Reframing on opp22:04 Could opp give an alternative partner for the US instead of China?23:41 Arguing on opp27:02 Extending on opp + Hegemonic Challenger theory30:44 Advice for IR motions