Taiwan Responds to US Report on China’s Religious Policies
The Taiwan Ministry of Foreign Affairs has addressed a report by the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) concerning China’s policies on religion. The report highlights China’s efforts to control religious groups through a policy called ‘sinicisation.’ This policy aims to align religious practices with the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) political agenda and Marxist ideology.
USCIRF Report Findings
The USCIRF report, titled ‘Sinicisation of Religion: China’s Coercive Religious Policy,’ outlines how the CCP, under Xi Jinping’s leadership, seeks to subordinate religious groups. This affects Buddhists, Christians, Muslims, and Taoists by appointing CCP loyalists to religious roles, altering worship places, embedding propaganda in teachings, and criminalizing unsanctioned religious activities.
International Concerns
Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed concern over China’s lack of respect for human rights, both domestically and internationally. The USCIRF recommended that the US Department of State classify China as a “Country of Particular Concern” due to its violations of religious freedom.
China’s Sinicisation Policy
China’s policy aims to reshape religious practices to fit Chinese socialist values. It includes regulating religious organizations, promoting patriotic education, and integrating Chinese culture into religious practices. The government conducts inspections and training for clergy to ensure compliance.
Doubts Revealed
Taiwan -: Taiwan is an island located in East Asia, near China. It has its own government and operates like a separate country, but China considers it a part of its territory.
USCIRF -: USCIRF stands for the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom. It is a group that advises the US government on how to protect religious freedom around the world.
Sinicisation -: Sinicisation is a policy where China tries to make different cultures and religions more like Chinese culture. This means changing religious practices to fit with what the Chinese government wants.
Chinese Communist Party -: The Chinese Communist Party is the ruling political party in China. It controls the government and makes important decisions for the country.
Country of Particular Concern -: A ‘Country of Particular Concern’ is a label used by the US to identify countries that are not respecting people’s rights to practice their religion freely. It means the US is very worried about how that country treats religious people.
