The revolutions of 1989 began on 15th April 1989 on Tienanmen Square, a movement erupted against corruption and privileges which engulfed most urban centres in China. On June 4th the Beijing protests were defeated by a determined military clampdown. What was the reason for the defeat of the protests by the state in China? Why were similar protests able to defeat the state in Eastern Europe?

Heiko Khoo an eyewitness in China and Berlin in 1989 gives his take to an audience at London's Speakers Corner including people from Poland, Romania and China.