China Releases White Paper on Protecting Freedom of Religious Belief

On April 3, 2018, the State Council Information Office released a white paper titled “China's Policies and Practices on Protecting Freedom of Religious Belief”.
On April 3, 2018, the State Council Information Office released a white paper titled “China's Policies and Practices on Protecting Freedom of Religious Belief”. (photo: gov.cn)
By Ruth WangApril 5th, 2018

On April 3, 2018, the State Council Information Office released a white paper titled "China's Policies and Practices on Protecting Freedom of Religious Belief".

Apart from the preface and conclusion, the paper consists of five parts: the basic policy to protect freedom of religious belief, the legal protection of freedom of religious belief, holding religious activities in an active yet orderly manner, giving full play to the role of the religious community, and building positive relations with and among religions.

According to the paper, the religious activities carried out by foreign people are protected by law. They can attend religious activities at religious premises in the country including temples, mosques, and churches. No foreigner or foreign organization is permitted to establish religious organizations, found offices and sites for religious activities, or recruit foreign students in China without authorization. They are forbidden to develop followers, appoint clerical staff, or join in evangelistic activities.  

- Translated by Karen Luo

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