ENGCHINA
Under new rules, the Chinese Communist Party will have a say in various aspects of religious life, managing funds and selecting of leaders and staff
Elizabeth Lam, Hong Kong
February 6, 2020
Religion in China has received its last nail in the coffin with a new set of rules, effective from Feb. 1.
The new regulations on religious affairs make religion submissive to the ruling Chinese Communist Party (CCP) as they cover every aspect of religious life, from the formation of communities to daily activities.
The comrades at the Religious Affairs Office will have a say in rites and rituals, selection of leaders, annual meetings, hiring staff and handling funds. All of these activities must be reported in advance for their approval.
The CCP has been placed above all religious heads, reducing the role of the clergy to that of a meek facilitator. It is going to be hard for Muslims, Buddhists, Christians and Taoists — followers of China’s ancient folk religion — who will only be allowed to practice their faith in the country with strings attached.
