"TAIPEI - China's top envoy Chen Yunlin on Friday wrapped up a historic visit to Taiwan paving the way for closer co-operation between the traditional rivals but overshadowed by massive and sometimes violent protests."
"TAIPEI - More than 60 police were injured in Taiwan overnight during massive protests against a visit by top Chinese envoy Chen Yunlin, police said Friday. "
I never really understood the point of a riot... I mean, yes people do have different views but is there a need to get your hands stained with blood? There're better ways to get a point across, though I'll admit that violence is the surest way to get attention. Attention and a negative image as a bonus. Hmmm... On second thought, dressing up as clowns and parading in the streets will probably make a more lasting impression.. Now that's a riot! Just leave out the violence.
I think the worst kind of riots are those for economic reasons. I'm no economist. But logic says that damaging property and personnel isn't really profitable financially... Ever wonder where the money to fix up all that collateral damage came from? Correct me if I'm wrong.
Of course, like all things we should always look at the context. That can be rather varying, and I'm in no position to talk about that, being in the shoes of a third party observer with little knowledge...